MINESTRA with SAUSAGE & GREENS

Minestra simply means "soup".  Here is comfort food at its best.  Please note the picture shows "little meatballs" which I substituted for the sausage.

1/4 Cup Chopped Bacon

2 Small Red Onions, coarsely chopped

5 Garlic Cloves, coarsely chopped

1 (8 oz ) can Cannelini Beans

3 Cups Greens, chopped (spinach, kale, Swiss chard, or mustard)

2 Cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth

2 Cups Water

4 Carrots, chopped

5 Red or Yellow Potatoes, 1-1/2" chop (either peeled or unpeeled as preferred)

1 Tsp dried Thyme

1 Tsp dried Basil

1/2 Tsp dried Oregano

3 Sausages, raw and sliced or pieces as preferred OR 10 raw tiny meatballs

1/4 Tsp Salt

1/4-1/2 Tsp Black Pepper

1/8-1/4 Tsp Cayenne Pepper to taste

Brown bacon on low in heavy pot or Dutch Oven then add onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent stirring occasionally to keep garlic from scorching.  Add beans and greens, mixing to incorporate.  Next add broth and water, vegetables and herbs (excluding salt and pepper) and sausage or meatballs.  Bring to a boil over medium heat then reduce heat and simmer for 30 - 45 minutes or until sausages are cooked (partially covered).  Add salt and pepper to taste.