Description
This Sardinian Herb Soup is a nutrient-dense, hearty Mediterranean recipe inspired by Blue Zone longevity traditions. Packed with leafy greens, beans, fresh herbs, and vegetables, it’s a flavorful, wholesome soup perfect for a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil: adds richness and healthy fats
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: adds sweetness and depth
- 2 medium carrots, finely chopped: brings natural sweetness and color
- 2 medium celery stalks, finely chopped: offers crunch and balance
- 1 large fennel bulb, finely chopped: provides subtle licorice notes and aids digestion
- 1 tsp dried oregano: classic Mediterranean herb with antioxidants
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes: adds mild heat and complexity
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: boosts aroma and immune-supporting properties
- 4–6 cups leafy greens (Tuscan kale and cabbage), roughly chopped: nutrient-rich and hearty
- 1 bunch flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped: adds brightness and freshness
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth: flavorful and mineral-rich base
- 15 oz can white beans (e.g., cannellini), drained and rinsed: adds fiber and creaminess
- 1/2 tsp salt: enhances overall flavor
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: adds mild heat
- 1 cup rustic organic Italian pasta (optional): adds texture and makes the soup heartier
- Grated Sardinian pecorino or Parmesan cheese (for garnish): adds umami and richness
Instructions
- Finely chop the fennel, carrots, onion, and celery. Roughly chop the greens and parsley.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add fennel, onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 10 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add the chopped parsley, leafy greens, white beans, broth, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 30–45 minutes.
- Turn off heat and let the soup rest, covered, for 1–2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- If using pasta, cook it separately and stir into the soup before serving.
- Serve hot with grated cheese on top and crusty sourdough bread on the side.
Notes
- Letting the soup rest after cooking enhances the depth of flavor.
- Use vegetable broth and omit cheese for a vegan version.
- Cook pasta separately to avoid mushiness when reheating.
- Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze without pasta or cheese for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 2 cups)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 5mg