Minestra Sporca with a Twist

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 4 ounces (113g) pancetta or bacon, diced 4 ounces (113g) pancetta or bacon, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup (150g) kale, chopped 1 cup (150g) kale, chopped
• 1 can (14 ounces/400g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 1 can (14 ounces/400g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups (960ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (960ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) crushed tomatoes 1 cup (240ml) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (100g) whole wheat pasta, such as fusilli or penne 1 cup (100g) whole wheat pasta, such as fusilli or penne
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 8g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy.
2. 2.
   Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. 3.
   Stir in the carrots, celery, and kale, and cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.
4. 4.
   Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, dried thyme, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
5. 5.
   Meanwhile, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. 6.
   Remove the bay leaf from the soup and add the cooked pasta. Stir well to combine.
7. 7.
   Serve the Minestra Sporca hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pancetta/Bacon — For a healthier option, choose lean pancetta or turkey bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute with smoked tofu or tempeh for a smoky flavor.
• Whole wheat pasta — Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dish. Cook it al dente to maintain a pleasant texture in the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, sauté the vegetables until they develop a slight caramelization.
• For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans before adding them to the soup.
• Customize the soup by adding other vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences by adding more herbs or spices.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together even more, making it even more delicious the next day.

Serving advice

Serve the Minestra Sporca with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful broth. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Minestra Sporca in rustic bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve it alongside a colorful salad to create an appealing contrast.