Minestrone Soup

Low fat, high fiber and full of protein, this soup is especially good for those of you taking a break from meat and dairy during your detox. The high quality protein in these beans will help replace the protein you are used to getting from animal products.

At the same time, the high quality dietary fiber in these beans will help clear your arteries of the cholesterol left behind by those same animal products.

Minestrone soup is the Italian version of “whatever’s in the fridge” soup. It is a common dish in the Italian culinary genre known as cucina povera (literally "poor kitchen"). It is used as a main dish daily staple because it’s affordable, filling and full of nutrients.

Minestrone recipes vary greatly based on regions, seasons and what’s available. Our version of minestrone is vegan, gluten-free and especially clean - just right for your detox diet.

Ingredients:

(use organic whenever possible)

olive oil

1 large onion

3 cloves garlic

2 stalks celery (plus inner stalks with leaves)

3-4 tablespoons Italian spices (basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, marjoram)

2-3 carrots

1 15 oz. can diced or crushed tomatoes (or 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes)

1 15 oz. can kidney beans (or 1 1/2 cups cooked beans)

1 15 oz. can garbanzo beans (or 1 1/2 cups cooked beans)

salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Chop onions, garlic, celery and carrots.
2. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until transparent.
3. Then add celery and spices and sauté a few more minutes.
4. Add carrots, tomatoes and beans.
5. Add enough water to cover what's in the pot.
6. Bring to a boil. Lower and simmer 20 minutes or longer.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Serves 4

• This soup can be serve as is, with a whole grain or with Tinkyada Rice Pasta for a great gluten-free, hearty meal.