Fall Is In The Air

Fall is in the Air.  I love this time of year.  My thoughts turn from gardening to cozy nights curled up in front of a warm crackling fire,  

A pot of soup simmering on the stove. . .  

And fresh baked bread. . . 

Straight from the oven. 

ZUPPA DI FAGIOLI (WHITE BEAN SOUP) 

1 ham bone or pancetta

3 garlic cloves, chopped + 2 whole garlic cloves

6 sage leaves

3 Tblps. Extra virgin olive oil

2 cans white beans or dried beans that have been soaked in water for 12 hours. ( I always use canned beans)

1 Tblsp. Mrs. Dash garlic and herb seasoning

1 Tblsp. Basil

2 Tblsp. chopped parsley

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 onion, chopped

2 carrots, chopped

4 plum tomatoes, peeled and chopped

8 cups vegetable or beef stock

Salt & Pepper to taste 

Combine the ham bone or pancetta, chopped garlic and sage in a deep saucepan.  Add 3 tablespoons olive oil and cook over low heat until the garlic is golden.  Add the remaining ingredients + stock and bring to a slow boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for about 2 hours until veggies are tender.