Minestrone

1. 1
   Heat olive oil in a large saucepan.
2. 2
   Add onion, celery, carrot, courgette and pancetta.
3. 3
   Cook gently for 10 minutes until softened.
4. 4
   Stir in garlic and oregano and cook for 1 minute.
5. 5
   Add beans, tomatoes, purée, stock and bay leaf.
6. 6
   Season and simmer for 30 minutes.
7. 7
   Add pasta and greens.
8. 8
   Cook for a further 10 minutes.
9. 9
   Serve with basil, parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

Add extra stock if the soup thickens too much while cooking.

Use seasonal vegetables where possible

Add parmesan rind while simmering for depth

Tastes even better the next day