Ribollita

From Real Simple Magazine April 2005. A good use for leftover stale bread. (I have corrected the amount of salt.)

• Ready In: 1 hr 24 mins
• Serves: 8-10

Ingredients

• 4  slices bacon, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
• 1  tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1  large onion, cut into 1/2-inch dice
• 2  stalks celery, cut into small dice
• 2  medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice
• 2  large garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1  large baking potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice
• 1 (14 1/2ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 3⁄4 cup dry red wine, such as Cotes du Rhone
• 4  cups low sodium beef broth
• 1 (15 1/2ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 2  bunches swiss chard, stemmed and roughly chopped
• 3  teaspoons kosher salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 10  slices  stale  crusty bread, torn into large bite-size pieces (about 10 oz.)
• 6  teaspoons  prepared pesto sauce

Directions

1. Place a Dutch oven or a soup pot over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the oil and onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the celery, carrots, and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the potato and cook until it has started to soften, about 6 minutes.
2. Add the tomatoes, wine, broth, beans, and 2 cups of water. Place the Swiss chard on top, cover, and bring to a boil. Uncover, stir to combine, and simmer gently for 45 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in the salt and pepper gently to combine. (At this point the soup can be chilled for reheating and serving the next day.).
3. Divide the bread among serving bowls. Ladle the hot soup over the bread and finish with a drizzle of olive oil or pesto, if desired.