Pasta e Ceci (Italian Chickpea Soup)

Step 1

Peel and small dice the onion. Mince the garlic. Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the onion and saute for 5 to 6 minutes until the onions are just translucent. Add the garlic and tomato paste and saute for 1 minute.

Step 3

Add the vegetable broth, tomatoes and juices, chopped basil, drained and rinsed chickpeas, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, Parmesan rind (or grated Parmesan) and kosher salt. Bring it to a simmer, then cook 10 minutes on medium low.

Step 4

Add the pasta and kale and cook until pasta is just al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 5

Taste and add fresh ground black pepper and more kosher salt to taste. Remove the Parmesan rind. If desired, garnish with torn basil leaves and Parmesan cheese shavings. The soup will continue to thicken as it cools.