BEANS, GREENS, AND SAUSAGE SOUP

Beans, Greens, and Sausage Soup image

Provided by Phil Franco

Categories Pork

Time 40m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

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12 ounces mild Italian sausage, casings removed
3 large garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon rubbed dried sage
3 (15 1/2 ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
3 (14 1/2 ounce) cans chicken broth
4 cups water
1 cup macaroni
1 (6 ounce) bag baby spinach leaves, stems removed
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
grated pecorino romano cheese

Steps:

Preparation:.
Crumble the sausage into a large cold pot. Cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, for about 3 minutes, or until browned. Remove with a slotted spoon, set aside. Pour off and discard any drippings. Add the garlic and sage.
Cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add the beans, broth and water. Increase the heat to high and bring just to a boil. Scrape up the browned bits at the bottom of the pot.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover partially and simmer for 15 minutes.
Transfer about half of the beans and enough broth to cover, to a blender or food processor. Purée and return to the pot. Add the macaroni and the reserved sausage.
Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir in the spinach, vinegar, salt and the pepper. Sprinkle with Pecorino Romano at the table.