January 4, 2016

Welcome and thank you for joining me on this – my latest adventure! Normally, I’m not one for New Year’s resolutions. I think we should always be looking for ways to better ourselves or learning something new. But this year feels different – Maybe because I turned 60 last month. There are so many things I want to do and time is flying by!! But, if the new year works for you, then go for it! Let’s all work on being the best we can be – All year long!!

B.

Today’s topic is SOUP!

Cold weather is the perfect time to eat soup. (Unless, of course, you’re at the beach enjoying a bowl of clam chowder!) I like to make a big pot that lasts several days. It’s well worth the effort because it’s convenient, healthy and filling! We use soup as a meal, if it’s hearty: Just add a hunk of bread! Or, if I come home starving and need to eat something before I can prepare a meal, soup heats up quickly and is a filling alternative to some of the evil things that will be calling my name. And it’s portable if you need a nice, hot lunch option. Here’s what’s on my stove today:

Sausage Kale & White Bean Soup

2 tsp olive oil
Medium onion, diced
Minced garlic (optional), to taste
1 package turkey kielbasa, sliced or chopped
Small Bunch of kale, thick stems removed and torn into smaller pieces
Large can Cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
Chicken broth, fat free, fat free, low Sodium (64 oz)

Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil
Add sausage and beans: Blend with wooden spoon
Add kale and heat until wilted
Add broth and stir
Simmer and serve

If you’re not a fan of kale, almost any greens will do – try spinach, collard greens or even cabbage! If you’re not a chef or you’re pressed for time, try using dried minced onion and garlic from the supermarket. That’s the beauty of soup – You can be creative and use ingredients that you like or even use whatever is on hand. ENJOY!