Pink Bean, Quinoa, and Spinach Soup | Fatfree Vegan Kitchen Recipe

Recipe courtesy of:
Fatfree Vegan Kitchen

Pink Bean, Quinoa, and Spinach Soup
from Vegan Express by Nava Atlas

An appetizing, mildly spiced mélange of nourishing beans, grains, and greens, this makes a stellar centerpiece for a soup-based meal. Quinoa is an excellent source of protein, making this practically a meal in a bowl.

1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
8 baby carrots, quartered lengthwise
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 natural, salt-free vegetable bouillon cubes
One 14- to 16-ounce can diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons good-quality curry powder
Pinch of cinnamon
Pinch of ground nutmeg
1/2 cup quinoa
One 15-to 16-ounce can pink beans, drained and rinsed
5 to 6 ounces baby spinach leaves, well rinsed
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1. Heat the oil in a large soup pot. Add the onion and sauté over medium-low heat until translucent. Add the carrots and garlic, and continue to sauté until all are golden, about 5 minutes.

2. Add 6 cups water, followed by the bouillon cubes, tomatoes, quinoa, beans, and spices. Bring to a rapid simmer, then cover and simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender.

3. Add the spinach and cover. Cook for just a minute or two, until it is wilted, then stir in. Adjust the consistency with a little more water if the soup is too dense; season with salt and pepper and serve.

6 or more servings. Calories: 181 Total fat: 5 g Protein: 7.5 g Carbohydrates: 26 g Fiber: 6 g Sodium: 280

Copyright © 2008 by Nava Atlas. Reproduced by permission.