Spring Minestrone

This vibrant Spring Minestrone Soup is a nourishing, energy-boosting meal perfect for busy days ahead! With lean ground chicken, fresh green beans, and vitamin-rich Swiss chard, this bright yet hearty soup provides lasting fuel to keep you feeling energized throughout the day. Enjoy a breath of fresh spring air in every bowl!

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons olive oil plus more for drizzling
• 1lb ground chicken
• 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into thin rounds (2 1/2 cups)
• 3 stalks celery, sliced (about 1 1/2 cups)
• Crushed red pepper (optional)
• Kosher salt
• 6 cups lower-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 4 ounces fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-in. pieces (1 cup)
• 4 cups chopped green Swiss chard
• 1 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil, plus small leaves for serving
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and break it up into small chucks using a spatula or wooden spoon. Season the meat with salt and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook the chicken through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Add 2 more tablespoons of oil and add the leeks, celery, crushed red pepper (if using), and 1/2 teaspoon salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until leeks soften, about 4 minutes. Add broth and bring to a boil.
3. Add pasta to pan. Return to a boil. Cook over medium-high, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender, about 12 minutes.Return the chicken to the pot and stir in beans during the final 3 minutes of cook time. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in chard, basil, lemon juice, and remaining 1 1/4 teaspoons salt. Ladle into bowls and drizzle with olive oil. Top with Parmesan (if using) and small basil leaves.

Note when preparing leeks:

Chop off the dark green ends and either toss or save to use in broth. Cut the white part of the leeks in half lengthwise, then slice thinly across. Rinse thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt before cooking.