Sausage, Beans and Broccoli Rabe Soup

This is a tasty and simple soup that I've been making for years. Though I've actually never had it with broccoli rabe. I've never been able to find it in the grocery store when I want to make it, so I usually substitute broccolini and/or spinach. I'm hoping someday I'll actually experience it how it's intended.

Sausage, Beans and Broccoli Rabe Soup
Courtesy of Rachael Ray



2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 turns of the pan
1 1/4 pounds Italian bulk sweet sausage
1 medium onion, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
1 large potato, peeled and chopped into small dice
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 bay leaf
2 cans white beans, drained
Salt and pepper
4 cups chopped broccoli rabe and greens
2 quarts chicken stock
Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Romano, to pass at table

Heat medium soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and sausage and brown. Add veggies, bay leaf and beans. Season with salt and pepper. Cook mixture 5 minutes to begin to soften the vegetables. Add rabe and wilt. Add stock and cover pot. Raise heat and bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cook 15 minutes. Adjust seasonings and serve soup with grated cheese, for topping.