Broccoli and shell macaroni soup - house beautiful

4 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
2tablespoonsExtra-virgin, full-flavored olive oil
1cupFinely chopped onion
3largesGarlic cloves, chopped or sliced
¾cupFinely chopped celery rib
2tablespoonsFinely chopped parsley leaves
½teaspoonDried marjoram
1can(16-oz) plum tomatoes and juice
5cupsFresh broccoli florets and peeled stems cut into 1/2 inch pieces, about 1 lb
6cupsChicken broth, beef broth or water
Coarse sea salt to taste
½teaspoonFreshly ground pepper or to taste
1cupSmall macaroni shells
cupFreshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese

Directions

In a 3-to 4-quart heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium heat, saute olive oil, onion, garlic, celery, parsley and marjoram, stirring frequently until the celery and onion begin to color, about 10 minutes.

Add tomatoes and juice, breaking up the tomatoes with a wooden spoon, and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.

Add broccoli, broth, salt and pepper to pot, cover and bring to a boil. Adjust heat and simmer, partially covered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir macaroni shells into mixture and continue to simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally until shells are tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Taste soup and correct seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Remove stockpot from heat, cover and allow soup to rest 10 minutes before serving. Serve with a bowl of freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Serves 3 to 4.

House Beautiful/February/94 Scanned & fixed by DP & GG