Ingredients
2 small leeks (or 1 large), white and light green parts sliced thin crosswise (about ¾ cup)
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped small (about ¾ cup)
2 small onions, peeled and chopped small (about ¾ cup)
2 medium stalks celery, trimmed and chopped small (about ¾ cup)
1 medium baking potato, peeled and cut into ½-inch dice (about 1¼ cups)
1 medium zucchini, trimmed and chopped medium (about 1¼ cups)
3 cups stemmed spinach leaves, cut into thin strips
1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes packed in juice, drained and chopped
8 cups water
1 Parmesan cheese rind, about 5 by 2 inches
1 teaspoon salt
1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
¼ cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
Preparation
Bring the leeks, carrots, onion, celery, potato, zucchini, spinach, tomatoes, water, cheese rind, and salt to a boil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still hold their shape, about 1 hour. Remove and discard the cheese rind.
Add the beans and cook just until heated through, about 5 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the pesto. Adjust the seasonings, adding pepper and more salt, if necessary. Serve immediately.
