Lunch: Garden Minestrone Recipe

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Spinach

Health benefits of Garden Minestrone Recipe

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

2 tablespoons olive oil
7 medium carrots, chopped
7 celery ribs, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
3 medium zucchini, chopped
2 yellow summer squash (about 3 cups), chopped
2 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried sage leaves
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 cans (15-1/2 ounces each) great northern beans, rinsed and drained, divided
1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 cartons (32 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 cup uncooked ditalini or other small pasta
12 cups chopped fresh spinach (12 ounces)

Instructions

In a 6-quart stockpot, heat oil over medium heat. Add carrots, celery and onion; cook until tender, 6-8 minutes. Add zucchini, yellow squash and seasonings; cook and stir until squashes are crisp-tender, 4-6 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer.
Mash 1/2 cup beans with a fork. Stir mashed beans and tomatoes into vegetables. Add broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 10-12 minutes.
Stir in pasta and remaining beans; return to a boil. Cook, uncovered, 7-9 minutes or just until pasta is tender. Discard bay leaves. Stir in spinach; cook until spinach is wilted.