Sardinian Longevity Minestrone is a hearty Blue Zones soup filled with beans, vegetables, olive oil, and fresh herbs for vibrant living.

Scale

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 small yellow or white onion chopped

1 medium carrot peeled and chopped

1 celery rib chopped

1 broccoli stalk peeled and chopped

1 small sweet potato peeled and diced

1 small fennel bulb chopped

1 tablespoon tomato paste

2 cloves garlic minced

1 can fava beans

1 can Great Northern beans

1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley chopped

1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped

1/2 cup fregola pasta

kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup Pecorino Romano or Daiya Smoked Gouda

extra virgin olive oil for garnish

1. Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium heat.

2. Add vegetables and sauté until softened.

3. Add tomato paste and garlic; stir until fragrant.

4. Add beans, crushed tomatoes, and water; bring to boil.

5. Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes.

6. Add pasta and salt; cook 10 minutes more.

7. Stir in herbs and adjust seasoning.

8. Serve with olive oil drizzle and cheese.

Adjust thickness with extra water if needed.

Soup tastes better the next day.

Store refrigerated up to 4 days or freeze.