1/4 cup olive oil and more for garnish 1 medium onion, chopped 1 medium carrot, chopped 1 medium celery stalk, chopped salt and black pepper 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes 1 medium zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 bunch kale or escarole, chopped 1 cup canned cannellini beans, drained 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese You can add a pound of sausage or bacon to the pot along with the onion and carrot. Or stir in 1 cup of any small pasta and one cup of water about 5 minutes after adding the kale You can also add a handful of chopped basil with the zucchini.

1. In a large pot, heat 1/4 cup oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring often for 10 to 15 minutes or until vegetables begin to soften and darken around the edges.

2. Add potatoes; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 -10 minutes or until vegetables are nicely browned. Add 6 cups water, stirring to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Add tomatoes, bring to a boil, and then lower heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes.

3. Add zucchini and kale, raising heat if necessary to keep mixture at a steady bubble. Cook until vegetables are very tender, another 10-15 minutes. Stir in beans. Cook for 3-4 minutes. Add salt and pepper if needed. Top with parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

Serves 6.