We will be featuring a new recipe every month from our MusicCooks Collection . From “Cocktail Hour” to “Chocolate Bliss” each collection includes 16 different recipes along with a fun CD. Priced at $24 each, these are a great gift for you or a friend. Stop by the store to find your favorite one today!

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Classic Minestrone Soup ~ A meal in itself, this slow-simmered thick soup is perfect for a hearty winter supper. Serve with crusty bread and pass some freshly grated parmesan cheese. The soup is brimming with nutritious, anti-oxidant rich organic vegetables…keeping you healthy this season!  Makes 6 to 8 servings.

Ingredients

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3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

2 leeks (white part only), thinly slice and rinsed well

1 onion, diced

3 carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stocks, chopped

6 cups vegetable broth or water

1 potato, peeled and diced

1 cup diced green beans

2 zucchini, diced

2 cups firmly packed spinach leaves, chopped

1 28-oz can tomatoes, drained and chopped

2 cups shredded cabbage, preferably savoy

1 1/2 cups cooked cannellini or great northern beans

salt to taste

1/2 cup grated parmesan plus more for serving

 

Directions

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1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and saute’ the leeks, onion, carrots, and celery for 10 minutes, or until golden.

2. Increase heat to high and add the vegetable broth or water, potato, green beans, zucchini, spinach, tomatoes, and cabbage. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer gently for 1 to 2 hours.

3. Stir in the beans and salt and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and swirl in 1/2 cup parmesan cheese.

4. Lade the soup into bowls and serve with additional parmesan cheese alongside.