ITALIAN WHITE BEAN SOUP WITH POLENTA CROUTONS RECIPE

Packed with fresh rosemary, cannellini beans and polenta, this wonderfully warming soup is crammed with flavour and takes just 25 minutes to make. With a splash of lemon and shavings of vegetarian hard cheese (or Parmesan), it's the perfect dish for winter nights.

Prep Time    : 10  mins

Cook Time   : 15 mins

Servings      : 4

298 calories / serving

INGREDIENTS

·         2 tbsp olive oil

·         1 onion, sliced

·         2 garlic cloves, crushed

·         3 x 400g tins cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

·         600ml (1pt) vegetable stock

·         handful rosemary, chopped, plus extra to garnish

·         ½ lemon, zested and juiced

·         1/2 x 500g pack polenta, cubed

·         vegetarian hard cheese or Parmesan shavings, to serve

INSTRUCTIONS

1.  Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic, cook for 1 minute, then stir through the beans, stock and rosemary.

2. Bring  to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove half the mixture and whizz with a stick blender to a purée. Stir it back into the soup. Add the lemon zest and juice, then season to taste.

3.   Meanwhile, heat the remaining oil in a frying pan. Add the polenta cubes and fry for 2-3 minutes, turning until golden and crisp on all sides. To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with the polenta croutons, extra rosemary and cheese shavings.

Freezing and defrosting guidelines

Make the soup, then leave to cool at room temperature. Freeze (without garnishes or toppings) in a rigid container, leaving a bit of space for expansion, for up to 1-3 months. Reheat either from frozen or defrost in the fridge overnight. Once piping hot, add toppings or garnishes and serve.

Recipe from realfood.tesco.com

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