Ribollita

adapted from Sisters cafe (http://sisterscafe.blogspot.com/2009/01/ribollita.html)

olive oil

onion

1 leek (optional)

2 carrots

2 ribs celery

1 TBS. garlic

2 cans crushed tomatoes

1-2 tsp. Italian seasoning (to taste)

6 cups chicken broth (or water + bouillion)

2 cans great northern beans

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

2-3 big handfuls or spinach

salt and pepper to taste

croutons

parmesan cheese

Saute the veggies until they are soft. Add tomatoes, beans, broth & seasonings and cover and simmer on low for 20 minutes. Add spinach and continue cooking a few minutes until the spinach is cooked. Serve with croutons & cheese on top!

This is one of the few soups that I don't think needs to sit and simmer orever. It's good right away!