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White Bean Soup with Sausage and Escarole

Source of Recipe

Internet


Recipe Introduction

Soup can serve as the beginning course of a formal meal, or do just as well as a light lunch. By adding bread or salad on the side, it's easy to make a satisfying main-dish meal. The following recipe for White Bean Soup with Sausage and Escarole always is a welcome addition to the table. And if you prefer a spicier flavor, use hot Italian sausage in place of mild. If sodium is a concern, substitute reduced-sodium canned chicken broth in place of regular. When it comes to freezing soup, cool first before placing in the freezer and allow some room in the container for expansion. Frozen soup will keep for two months. Thaw in the refrigerator or microwave. But whether it's served as an appetizer or as a main-dish, now or later, this Italian-style soup is a delicious way to warm up a chilly afternoon.

List of Ingredients

1 pound fresh mild Italian sausage links, pierced with a fork
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 (15- to 16-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
3 (14.5-ounce) cans chicken broth
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1/2 tsp. dried oregano, cr ushed
7 1/2 cups packed shredded escarole, rinsed and drained (10 to 12 ounces)
Pepper, to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)



Recipe

In medium skillet, combine sausage and 1/4 cup water. Bring to boil; reduce heat. Cover and simmer 15 minutes, turning occasionally. Uncover and cook about five minutes more or until sausage is brown, turning often. Remove sausage; cut into 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch-thick slices. Meanwhile, heat oil in saucepan over medium heat until hot.
Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is tender, about five minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in beans, broth, tomatoes and oregano. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Cover and simmer 10 minutes. Stir in cooked sausage and escarole. Simmer 10 minutes or until escarole is tender. Season to taste with pepper. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving, if desired. Makes six (main-dish) servings.