Hot and Hearty Minestrone
"This simplified version of an Italian classic is kid-friendly and sure to please. Don't forget the cheese rind -- it adds hearty, authentic flavor...."
INGREDIENTS
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 slices bacon or pancetta
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1 large leek, white and light green parts only, split in half and rinsed very well under running water, thinly sliced
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1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
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6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
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4 cups water
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1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained and chopped
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3/4 cup chopped carrots
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3/4 cup chopped celery
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1/2 cup dried Great Northern beans, picked over and soaked overnight or 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained and rinsed
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1 Parmesan cheese rind, about 5 x 2 inches
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1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
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1 1/4 cups cubed zucchini
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2 medium new potatoes, scrubbed and cubed (about 6 ounces or 1 1/4 cups cubed)
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1 teaspoon Baby Bam
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1 teaspoon salt
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2 cups packed fresh spinach leaves, washed, dried, and coarsely chopped
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