Pasta Fagioli
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
8 cloves garlic, minced, to taste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
- Ib ground beef, optional
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
6 cups beef broth (can use chicken or vegetable broth if preferred)
24 oz marinara
2 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 bay leaf
1 parmesan rind (optional)
1 cup ditalini pasta
1 bunch or about 2 cups kale, chopped, stems removed
Juice from 1/2 lemon (to taste, plus more for garnish)
Garnish: Parmesan, black pepper, chives, olive oil, lemon juice, bread
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the onions, carrots, and celery.
Season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until softened.
Add in your garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Clear a center in your pot and add the ground beef. Season with more salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes to caramelize it slightly.
Add the broth, marinara, beans, bay leaf, and parmesan rind. Stir everything together, bring to a boil, and then lower to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally to develop the flavors.
After 30 minutes, add the ditalini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
In the last 5 minutes of cooking the pasta, stir in the chopped kale. Allow it to wilt and soften into the soup.
Stir in fresh lemon juice to taste, adjusting seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh grated Parmesan. chopped chives.
Spaghetti and Broccoli
1/2 lb. spaghetti, boiled and drained
1 crown fresh broccoli, cut up
4 cloves garlic (or more), sliced
1/2 c. olive oil
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet and add garlic. Add salt and sauté for one minute. Add broccoli and sauté, then add pasta. Toss well and cover.
Let cook on medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until broccoli is to desired tenderness.
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