Lunch: Fava Minestrone with Herbed Ricotta Crostini

Recipe by Todd English Topped with cheesy crostini, this robust Italian soup is perfect for family dinners and lunch the next day — if there's any left.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Spinach

Health benefits of Fava Minestrone with Herbed Ricotta Crostini

Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. The high iron content in spinach helps combat anemia, which is common in women with PCOS. Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidants in spinach can help lower oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including spinach in your diet can support overall health and well-being.

Ingredients

1/4 c. olive oil
1 c. peeled, diced carrots
1 c. chopped yellow onion
1 c. chopped celery
1/4 lb. pancetta
3 tbsp. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary
2 qt. chicken broth
2 c. cooked fresh (or frozen) fava beans
2 c. Cooked chickpeas
1 c. chiffonade-cut spinach
2 c. peas
salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

To make the Minestrone: In a large, heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the carrot, onion, and celery and cook, stirring often, for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the onion is translucent. Add the pancetta and cook, stirring often, for 8 to 10 minutes, or until crispy. Add the parsley, rosemary, and chicken broth, raise the heat to high, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes to blend the flavors. Add the fava beans, chickpeas, spinach, and peas and cook for 5 minutes, or until all the ingredients are heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
To make the Crostini: Preheat the broiler while the minestrone is simmering. In a bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, and basil and stir until smooth. Brush both sides of the bread slices with the olive oil, season both sides with salt and pepper, and arrange on a rimmed baking sheet. Slip under the broiler and broil, turning once, for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, or until golden and crunchy. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the bread slices.
To serve: Divide the soup among warmed bowls, and sprinkle each serving with 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese. Top each bowl with a crostino, and finish each bowl with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately.

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