White beans, Kale and Sausage soup

This is a hearty soup, made with spicy or sweet sausage, canned white beans, and chopped kale, along with tomatoes and other vegetables. This soup makes a delicious meal with hot baked rolls.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced carrot
• 8 to 12 ounces sausage, diced or thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bunch kale, chopped, about 8 to 10 cups chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, such as Great Northern, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 small powder chicken bouillon
• Dash hot pepper sauce, optional

Preparation:

In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onions, bell pepper, celery, carrots and sausage. Sauté, stirring, until onion is just tender. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add kale and garlic; cover cooking for 2 minutes. Add remaining ingredients; cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until vegetables are tender. Taste and adjust salt, as needed.