Green Minestrone Soup Recipes Vegetable Pasta Soup Recipes Italian Soup Recipes

Ingredients

3 tbsp. olive oil

1 onion

1 fennel bulb

3 ribs celery

1 1/2 tsp. salt

1 lb. boiling potatoes (about 3)

1 qt. canned low-sodium chicken broth or homemade stock

3 c. water

1/4 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper

1/2 c. tubetti or other small macaroni

1/2 lb. Swiss chard

1 lb. spinach

c. grated Parmesan

Preparation

Step 1In a large saucepan, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion, fennel, celery, and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften, about 10 minutes.Step 2Add the potatoes, broth, water, the remaining 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, and the pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the pasta and simmer for 5 minutes longer.Step 3Add the Swiss chard and spinach and bring the soup back to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the greens are wilted and the pasta is tender, about 5 minutes longer. Stir in the Parmesan.Step 4Variations: You’ll need a total of eight cups of shredded greens for this soup. Use one or any combination of the following: Swiss chard,spinach, escarole, green cabbage or kale. The more variety the better.Step 5Wine Recommendation: Your best bet with all these greens is a charming, fruity red, such as a Beaujolais or Valpolicella. The bright berry flavors will contrast with and highlight the vegetables.