Hearty Asparagus Leek Minestrone Soup
Garlic-infused asparagus, kale, and leeks keep this warming soup, from blogger Lauren Kretzer, rich with nutrients. Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for added heat and sprinkle with vegan parmesan for a touch of salty cheesiness.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large leeks, white and pale green parts only, thinly sliced into half moons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 1 small bunch asparagus, trimmed and chopped into ½-inch pieces (about 1¾ cups)
- 1½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15.5-ounce) can white beans (such as Great Northern, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup finely chopped kale
- 6 cups
- vegetable stock
- ½ cup dried orzo
- pasta
Method
- In a heavy bottomed pot
- over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Add leeks, garlic, and celery, and cook, stirring frequently for 4 minutes, or until leeks are tender. Add asparagus, salt, and pepper, and cook an additional 3 minutes. Add beans, kale, vegetable stock, and orzo and stir to combine.
- Raise heat and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered for 15 minutes, or until orzo is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Serve immediately.
What you need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large leeks, white and pale green parts only, thinly sliced into half moons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 1 small bunch asparagus, trimmed and chopped into ½-inch pieces (about 1¾ cups) 1½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper 1 (15.5-ounce) can white beans (such as Great Northern, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup finely chopped kale
- 6 cups vegetable stock
- ½ cup dried orzo pasta
