Cannellini Bean & Spinach Soup

It's that season again! Soup, chili, casseroles, warm yummy comfort food. But who says it can't be healthy & flavorful?!? This is a classic Italian soup that I made yesterday (Sunday). Usually I make a big pot of gravy & meatballs, pasta & homemade bread. However it was a little chilly & I had a craving. White beans are fat free & high in fiber & protein. I used turkey bacon which is much healthier then "the other stuff" The bacon is completely optional. It always has fat free-low sodium chicken broth, onions, garlic & spinach! Make a big pot & freeze what you don't use for later on.


6 cups fat free- low sodium chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 white onion, chopped finely
8 slices turkey bacon cut into small squares (optional)
1 can cannellini beans, rinsed
1 package baby spinach, or if using the big full leaves use half a bag & cut them into bite size pieces
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
s/p for tasting
a few sprinkles of good quality Italian cheese


In a large soup pot, cook the bacon. Add in the onions & garlic & saute until translucent. Next add in the chicken broth, beans, spinach, red pepper flakes (if using). Let simmer for one hour. Taste & add in salt & pepper as needed. Top with good quality Italian cheese ( I use Locatelli Pecorino Romano). Serve with warm crusty Italian bread & most importantly.......enjoy!!