7 Autumn Soups

Photo by: Sarah Shatz
Smoky Minestrone with Parsley or Basil Pesto-
We love WinnieAb's proclivity for combining delicious, nutritious ingredients (like the many vegetables in this soup) with a touch of ... more

Photo by: Sarah Shatz
Smoky Minestrone with Parsley or Basil Pesto-
We love WinnieAb's proclivity for combining delicious, nutritious ingredients (like the many vegetables in this soup) with a touch of the indulgent (bacon, cheese tortellini). The smokiness of the bacon permeates the minestrone, imbuing the tomatoey broth with a depth of flavor it wouldn't have otherwise. The bright, rustic pesto (we used parsley, but basil would be great too) is a superb final addition, adding a garlicky, herbal kick. - Amanda and Merrill

Smoky Minestrone with Tortellini and Parsley or Basil Pesto by WinnieAb

Serves 6-8

Soup:

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 slices preservative-free, all-natural bacon, chopped into small pieces
1 large onion, peeled and chopped
2 large cloves of garlic, minced
1 leek, trimmed and sliced thinly
3 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 ribs of celery, chopped
1 zucchini, chopped
1 potato, peeled and chopped
4 cups vegetable or chicken stock, preferably homemade
1 15 oz. can of cooked chickpeas, preferably organic
1 28 oz. can of peeled San Marzano tomatoes, with juice
Salt
1 cup kale, chopped fine
1 9-ounce package of high quality, all-natural cheese tortellini
Aged balsamic vinegar, for driz less