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Leek and Cannellini Bean Soup

4.4

(12)

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Photo by Liz Clayman

This soup is a terrific choice for those over sixty, as it's abundant in nutrients one especially needs later in life. These include healthy plant protein (older adults are prone to protein insufficiency), fiber, vitamin K, potassium, lysine to aid in calcium absorption, and folate to help reduce homocysteine levels, which are a major risk factor for heart disease. And of course, all soups are soft and so are a favorite for anyone with dental difficulties.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    4 servings

Ingredients

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 cups chopped leeks
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup diced turnip
1/2 tablespoon salt
6 cups chicken stock or water
1 1/2 (14-to 16-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (about 2 1/2 cups)
1/4 cup grated Parmigiano cheese

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    1. In a large pot, put 1/4 cup of the oil over high heat and heat until it shimmers. Add the leeks and sauté for 2 minutes.

    Step 2

    2. Add the carrots, celery, turnip, and salt and cook for another 2 minutes. Add the chicken stock and bring the soup to a boil. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes.

    Step 3

    3. Add the cannellini beans and simmer for another 2 minutes.

    Step 4

    4. Ladle the soup into bowls. Sprinkle each portion with cheese and drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil.

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From The Mediterranean Family Table © 2015 by Angelo Acquista, Laurie Anne Vandermolen. Buy the full book from HarperCollins or from Amazon.
Reprinted with permission from William Morrow Cookbooks.

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