Tuscan kale and fava bean soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bunch tuscan kale, cut into 1/2 strips
• Fava beans, shelled
• 1 onions, coarsely chopped
• 1 carrot chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 TBSP tomato paste
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley (save some for topping at the end)
• 5 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 qt water
• Parmesan
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb Italian sausage (optional)

Directions

1. Heat oil over medium heat in large pot. Add onions, carrots and salt. Sauté until tender, about 5-8 minutes depending on how finely you’ve chopped them.
2. Add garlic and tomatoes and return to fragrant simmer.
3. Add water + broth, tomato paste, parsley. Bring to a boil and simmer 10 minutes.
4. (Optional) For added protein, sauté Italian sausage in skillet while water is heating. Add to soup during last few minutes.
5. Add kale and fava beans, then simmer 5-10 minutes more until al dente.
6. Serve and top with grated parmesan and fresh parsley.