Lunch: Hearty Minestrone Soup

This satisfying soup from David Bull is an excellent source of fiber.

This recipe includes fertility superfoods such as:

Lemon

Health and fertility benefits of Hearty Minestrone Soup

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to.

Ingredients

1 1/4 c. dried white beans
3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
2 oz. pancetta
2 medium shallots
2 large celery ribs
1 medium onion
1 large carrot
1/2 fennel bulb
4 clove garlic
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp. tomato paste
1 can plum tomatoes
1 qt. low-sodium chicken broth
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 c. baby arugula
1/2 c. flat-leaf parsley leaves
1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice

Instructions

In a pot, cover beans with 2 inches water and bring to a boil. Simmer over low heat until tender, about 2 hours; add water to keep beans covered. Drain beans and reserve cooking liquid.
Meanwhile, in another pot, heat 2 tablespoons oil. Add pancetta and cook over moderate heat until crisp, 4 minutes. Add shallots, celery, onion, carrot, and fennel, and cook until softened. Add garlic, crushed pepper, and bay leaves and cook, stirring, until fragrant. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring, 2 minutes. Stir in tomatoes and broth; bring to a boil. Simmer over low heat 1 hour. Add beans and enough cooking liquid to thin out soup. Discard bay leaves; season with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, toss arugula and parsley with lemon juice and remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Season with salt and pepper. Serve soup in bowls; top with salad.

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