This healthy soup is delectable, satisfying and, if you use vegetable broth in lieu of chicken, ideal for vegetarians. It's the perfect combination of fiber-rich beans, spinach and whole-wheat couscous complemented by garlic, leeks and mint.

Spanish explorers introduced cannellini beans to Europe in the 15th century, and from Europe these white beans found their way to Africa and Asia.

This bean variety originated in Peru, but today cannellini are quite popular in the Tuscany region in Italy. An excellent source of iron, magnesium and folate, they provide the underlying consistency for this recipe.

The leeks' subtle and mellow flavor enhances the soup and they are a good source of vitamin C and folate. The garlic, cumin, mint and lemon combination produces a slightly pungent and somewhat earthy taste.

The couscous, a coarsely ground semolina pasta similar to rice in shape and texture, thickens the consistency of the soup into a hearty mixture. The carrots and spinach add a splash of color and nutritional value.

The end result is a pleasing and easy to prepare soup that provides warmth and energy to power you through a chilly day.

White Bean Soup with Spinach, Leeks and Couscous

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tsp. olive oil
  • 4 leeks, bulb only, chopped (rinsed very well)
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 cups chopped carrots
  • 1/2 tsp. dried mint leaves
  • 2-3 tsp. ground cumin
  • 4 (16 oz.) cans fat-free, reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 (16 oz.) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/4 cup whole-wheat couscous
  • 2 cups packed fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Directions

  1. In large soup pot heat oil over medium heat. Add leeks, garlic and carrots and saute until tender, about 5 minutes. Add dried mint and cumin. Stir until fragrant about 2 more minutes.

  2. Stir in chicken broth, beans and bay leaves. Bring to boil; reduce heat to low.

  3. Stir in couscous. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in spinach; add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

  4. Remove bay leaf. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving:

170 calories
2.5 g total fat
0 g saturated fat
30 g carbohydrate
8 g protein
7 g dietary fiber
520 mg sodium