Squash and Bean Minestrone

Ingredients for Squash and Bean Minestrone

• 2 smoked ham hocks (about 675g)

• 450g dried navy or cannellini (white kidney) beans

• 60ml plus 2 tablespoons olive oil plus more for drizzling

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 leeks, white and pale-green parts only, finely chopped

• 2 small celery stalks with leaves (from celery heart), chopped

• Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 1 butternut squash (about 1.1kg), peeled, cut into 1/2" pieces

• 450g green beans, trimmed, cut into 1" pieces

• 1925ml low-sodium chicken broth

• 450g small pasta (such as tiny shells or pipette)

• 1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, divided

• 2 bunches flat-leaf spinach, thick stems removed

• Rocket Salsa Verde (for serving)

Remove meat from ham hocks and cut into large pieces; set meat aside. Place navy beans and ham bones in a large pot; add cold water to cover by 2". Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let stand 1 hour.

Heat 60ml oil in another large heavy pot over medium-low heat. Add ham hock meat, onion, leeks, celery, and garlic; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 20 minutes.

Add squash, green beans, navy beans and soaking liquid, broth, and bones to pot. Bring to a simmer over medium heat; reduce heat to low, cover, and gently simmer until navy beans are tender, 1 1/2–2 hours.

When soup is almost finished cooking, cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons oil and add 1/4 cup parsley and toss to coat.

Discard ham bones. Add spinach and remaining 3/4 cup parsley to soup.

Divide soup among bowls. Add pasta, top with Rocket Salsa Verde, and drizzle with oil.

DO AHEAD: Soup can be made up to 3 days ahead. Let cool; cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.