Spinach White Bean (Sausage) Soup

As the temperature drops and there's even a hint of snow in the forecast this week, we are fully embracing soup season!! This delicious, comforting Spinach White Bean Soup adapted from It’s My Side of Life is a frequent staple in our home during the winter months since it comes together in about 30 minutes and is made with ingredients we typically always have on hand.  

Ingredients

• ¾ pound kielbasa
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1-2 tablespoons Healthy Harvest Greek extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cups cannellini beans
• 1 can diced tomatoes or 2 medium tomatoes diced (about 1 cup)
• 6 cups baby spinach leaves (try kale or collards too!)
• Freshly cracked pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Note: If using dry beans, soak over night. In the morning, rinse them, then continue to next step.
2. Slice sausage link into medallions and brown in large pot with olive oil. Add garlic as sausage finishes searing. Do not drain.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add in oregano and beans and stir. Then, add tomatoes and heat until beans are tender. If using canned, it won't take long at all.
5. Once beans are soft, add in greens just until wilted.
6. Season with salt, and black or red pepper.

Notes: This soup is gluten free as long as you use a gluten-free broth and could easily be made vegan by leaving out the sausage and using veggie broth.