CLICK HERE FOR THOUSANDS OF FREE BLOGGER TEMPLATES »

Wednesday, December 27, 2006

Green Minestrone

This is a new favorite of ours.

2 T. olive oil
4 slices pancetta (we use what we have, usually bacon)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
2 large cloves garlic, chopped
1 bay leaf
1 medium zucchini, diced
salt & pepper
1 can cannellini beans
1 can garbanzo beans
8 cups chicken broth
1 cup ditalini pasta
1/2 pound green beans
10 oz. spinich, chopped
1/2 cup Pamigiano Reggiano
fresh basil

Heat a soup pot over med-high heat. Add oil and pancetta. Saute 2 minutes. Add onions, celery, garlic, bay leaf and zucchini and season with salt and pepper. Saute another 5 minutes stirring frequently. Add beans and chicken broth. Cover and bring to a boil. Add pasta and green beans and cook until pasta is just tender. Stir in spinach to wilt and add cheese. Top soup with basil.