Creamy White Bean and Peanut Soup

Lots of flavor and good protein in this quick and easy soup. Adding ham or smoked sausage is optional; actually, I like this soup better meatless and pureed smooth.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1  tablespoon olive oil
• 1  large onion, diced
• 1  cup  chopped celery, diced
• 1⁄2 cup ham or 1⁄2 cup smoked sausage, diced
• 1  garlic clove, minced
• 3  cups chicken broth
• 1⁄8 teaspoon  ground red pepper
• 1 (16 ounce) can white beans (chickpeas, great northern,navy or cannelini)
• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 3  tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1  tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Place a saucepan with the olive oil over medium heat, and saute onions, celery, meat and garlic for 8 minutes.
2. Add broth and next 3 ingredients, bringing to a boil.
3. Reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes.
4. Add the peanut butter, stirring with a whisk.
5. Cook 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve sprinkled with parsley.
7. I usually omit the meat and puree the soup with my stick blender, enjoying the smooth, creamy texture.