Italian Escarole Soup

Springtime means you can find escarole in your market.

Yield:  4-6 servings 

Ingredients 

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 small onion, chopped 

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 links of Italian sausage, cut into thin slices

8 cups chicken broth, homemade adds more flavor

2 (15-ounce) cans

cannellini beans or other white beans, drained 

1 head escarole, chopped 

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme 

Salt and pepper

Parmesan cheese for garnish

Directions 

Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the pan; swirl to coat. Add onion, garlic, and sausage; cook until sausage is browned, stirring frequently. Add broth and beans. Cover; bring to a boil, and cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in 1 ½ tablespoons salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, escarole, and thyme.  Cook until escarole is tender.

Divide soup evenly among individual soup bowls; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve with fresh Italian bread.