Rustic Bean and Greens Heart Healthy Soup

Today we're diving into a delicious and deeply satisfying recipe: Rustic Bean and Greens Heart Healthy Soup. This hearty bowl is not only packed with flavor but also brimming with goodness!

Let's talk about the stars of the show: leafy greens! Spinach, kale, or collards – the choice is yours – are nutritional powerhouses. They're loaded with vitamins and minerals, and they also contain nitrates, which help to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.

And don't forget about those beans! They're a fantastic source of protein and fiber, and studies have shown that they can help lower cholesterol levels. When using canned beans, always opt for low-sodium varieties or rinse them thoroughly to reduce sodium intake.

Watch the Cooking with Celebrate video below for the full recipe:

COOKING WITH CELEBRATE - Rustic Bean and Greens Heart Healthy Soup

Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil

• 1 cup carrots diced

• 1 small onion diced

• 2 garlic cloves minced

• 2 cups collard greens, kale and/or cabbage chopped

• 1 can white beans, pinto beans, black eyed peas, or favorite beans rinsed and drained

• 4 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 Tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar or to taste

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves optional

Directions

1. In a 2 or 3 quart heavy pot or dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced carrot and onion and sauté until just tender, about 7-10 minutes. Add garlic and cook an additional minute.

2. Add collard greens (or kale or cabbage) and saute another 10 minutes or until just tender.

3. Add broth and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Add rinsed beans, soy sauce and apple cider vinegar.

5. Finish by adding fresh spinach just before serving.

6. Serve in big bowls topped with croutons (optional).