White Bean, Ham and Spinach Soup
4 - 6 servings
A very yummy and filling soup for Winter. Especially good if you have some ham left from the Holidays. Without it, it makes a good vegetarian option, musing vegetable broth.
2 Tablespoons oil
2 (16 ounce ) cans white beans, drained and rinsed 1 (12 ounce ) package fresh spinach ½ cup chopped carrots 2 cups chopped red onion 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup chopped celery 1 teaspoon dried rosemary ¼ teaspoon crush dried pepper flakes 1 teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 6 cups low sodium chicken broth 1 cup diced tomatoes or 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes 2 cups coarsely chopped ham ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired |
In a large soup pot heat oil, add carrots, onions, garlic, celery, rosemary, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Cook 5 – 10 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Add white beans and chicken broth; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Place 2 cups soup in a blender and puree until smooth ( I use an immersion blender for just a quick blend) Stir in spinach and tomatoes and stir until spinach is soft. Ladle into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese.
