Toscano Soup (similar to Olive Garden)

This is a delicious hardy soup loaded with goodness, in flavour and health benefits. The healthy version is in brackets.

6 Hot or mild Italian sausage (turkey Italian sausage)

8 slices chopped bacon (optional)

1 large chopped onion

2 stalks celery chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

5 thinly sliced potatoes with skin on (I like to use Russet potatoes)

8 c. water or chicken broth

4-6 chicken bouillon cubes (use only if using water)

(use low sodium and no msg)

1 bunch of chopped Kale

1/2 c. heavy cream (skim milk or omit)

crushed red pepper flakes to taste, add when browning meat,

omit if using hot Italian sausage, unless you like things spiced up..=}

(a can of black beans adds fiber) optional, i didn't add this time.

saute sliced sausage and bacon til browned, drain fat.

Add onion, celery, garlic and cook several minutes til soft.

Add water and potatoes. Cook til potatoes are done, add kale and cream, DONE!

Would you like some freshly grated cheese or cracked pepper with that?