Minestrone Grande

Get a recipe for Minestrone Grande.

MAKES 6 SERVINGS

PREP TIME: 7 minutes

COOK TIME: 1 hour 5 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 1 hour 12 minutes

Nutritional Prenatal Benefits

• Copper, an important component of several enzymes that aid in the development of your baby’s heart, skeletal system, brain, and nervous system
• Fiber, which helps support digestive health
• Magnesium, which serves as an important component of more than 300 enzymes in the body
• Manganese, which plays a role in metabolism and blood clotting and aids in your baby’s development of organs, bones, and connective tissue
• Niacin, which aids in normal nervous system function
• Phosphorus, which is a component of all cell membranes, as well as DNA and RNA, and aids in the development of strong teeth and bones
• Potassium, a type of electrolyte important for your body to function properly
• Protein, which helps promote the development of muscles and organs
• Riboflavin, which aids in tissue function, respiration, and metabolism
• Thiamin, which aids in metabolism and allows for normal function of the nervous system and muscles
• Vitamin A, which supports your baby’s immune system and aids in cell growth
• Vitamin B6, a component of several enzymes that aid in protein metabolism
• Vitamin B12, which plays an important role in red blood cell formation and a healthy nervous system
• Vitamin C, which helps support the immune system and is an important component in the formation of collagen
• Vitamin K, which is important for blood coagulation and bone metabolism
• Biotin, which aids in metabolism and helps the body’s cells produce energy
• Calcium, which helps with the development and hardening of your baby’s bones
• Choline, which helps support your baby’s brain development
• Folate, which helps support healthy neural tube development
• Iron, which is a component of hemoglobin and important for brain development
• Omega-3 fatty acids, which are components of cell membranes and help support normal growth
• Omega-6 fatty acids, which help support the normal development of your baby
• Selenium, which contributes to a healthy immune system and proper thyroid function
• Vitamin E, which works as an antioxidant and helps support skin health
• Zinc, which is an essential component of more than 100 enzymes, is important for your baby’s growth and development

Directions

1. In a large pot set over high heat, combine the oil, onions, celery, carrots, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper flakes. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
2. Add the beans, ham, tomatoes (with juice), and broth. Bring the mixture almost to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and simmer until the carrots are softened, 45 minutes.
3. Add the kale. Cover partially and simmer until the kale is tender, 15 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, in another pot, cook the orzo according to the package directions. Drain; you should have 3 cups of cooked orzo.
5. Ladle 7 cups of the minestrone into a shallow container and let the soup stand to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days for later use.
6. Meanwhile, stir the orzo into the minestrone in the pot.