Restorative Tuscan Bean Soup

Sturdy winter greens and pantry staples come together in this soothing soup. It is gluten free if you serve it without bread, and vegan if you make it with vegetable broth.

Tuscan Bean Soup

Recipe by Lynn Fredericks
Serves 6-8 adults

Ingredients
1 medium Onion, diced
2 cloves Garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
½ bunch Kale, chopped
½ bunch Broccoli Rabe, chopped (can substitute with Collard Greens, Spinach, or similar greens)
1 28-ounce can whole Tomatoes
2 14-ounce cans Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed (can substitute other white beans),
4 cups Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth
3 springs fresh Thyme
Kosher salt to taste
Freshly ground Black Pepper, to taste
1 16-ounce loaf crusty Italian bread (to serve, optional)

Directions              

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally over low heat until translucent, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the kale and broccoli rabe to the pot; increase the heat to medium, and stir the greens until they wilt.
4. Squeeze the tomatoes into the pot.
5. Add beans to the pot.
6. Stir while adding the chicken or vegetable broth.
7. Pluck the thyme leaves from their stems and add to the pot.
8. Cook for 10 minutes.
9. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper
10. Serve with a loaf of crusty bread