The autumn months are some of our favorites. We enjoy the changing foliage colors, the promise of cooler weather and the young ghosts and goblins trick-or-treating through our neighborhood at the end of the month.

Now is the time to start thinking about the upcoming holidays and all the good eating to come. This is a great opportunity to set aside some time to pamper yourself. Sit back, relax and enjoy this change of seasons; and start making your holiday list NOW while you have the time to think. I’m never good at those last-minute panic trips to the mall. Now, complete your day with a quick and easy dinner of hearty soup, crusty bread and a leafy salad.

Bistro Gourmet Foods Sun Dried Tomato Minestrone

INGREDIENTS
3 TBSP Bistro Blends Sun Dried Tomato Balsamic
2 TBSP olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large potato, peeled, cubed
3 oz thin sliced pancetta, chopped coarse
1 lb Swiss chard, trimmed, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained, rinsed
1 tsp rosemary
2 cans (14 oz ea) beef broth
1/4 cup Shredded Parmesan cheese
Fresh Italian parsley, for garnish
Additional Parmesan cheese, for garnish if desired

Heat oil in a heavy large pot. Add onion, carrots, celery, pancetta and garlic. Saute until the onion is translucent but not browned, about 10 min. Add the Swiss chard and potato, sauté for 2 min. Add the tomatoes and rosemary and simmer until the chard is wilted, about 10 min.

Meanwhile, blend 3/4 cup of the beans with 1/4 cup broth in a blender until almost smooth. Add the pureed bean mixture, remaining broth and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until the potato pieces are tender. Stir in the whole beans and parsley, heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Ladle into bowls and serve with additional Parmesan Cheese and parsley as garnish.

REMINDER
Show season for Bistro Gourmet Foods is going strong this month. To see when we'll be exhibiting near you please check our show calendar on the Bistro Gourmet Foods website: www.bistrogourmetfoods.com