Winter Minestrone Soup

 Photo Credit: http://theurbanspork.com

Winter Minestrone Soup

Original Recipe: http://theurbanspork.com/2009/12/winter-minestrone-soup/

Ingredients:

•     1/2 medium onion, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
•     2 stalks celery, sliced crosswise into 1/2 inch pieces
•     1/2 bulb fennel, cut into 1 inch pieces
•     2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
•     2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
•     1 tablespoon olive oil
•     1-35 oz. can whole tomatoes, lightly crushed
•     8 cups low-sodium chicken stock
•     1-15 oz. can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
•     coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
•     2 teaspoons red-wine vinegar
•     1  1/2 bunches Swiss Chard leaves, thinly sliced
•     2 cups short pasta, for serving
•     freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a large stockpot over medium high heat.  Add onion, celery, fennel, potatoes and garlic.  Cook, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes and their juices, stock and cannellini beans; season with 2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.  Increase heat to high and bring to a boil.  Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in vinegar and Swiss chard; season with salt and pepper.
4. Prepare the pasta to al dente by following the directions included with the pasta.
5. Divide pasta evenly between bowls.  Ladle soup over the pasta and garnish with cheese.  Serve immediately.