Winter Greens Soup

1 large leek, sliced, cleaned, white parts only

1 celery stalk, cut into large chunks

1 garlic clove, peeled

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, optional

3 cups vegetable broth

2 tomatoes, quartered

4 cups kale, copped

1 medium zucchini, halved

¼ tsp sea salt, optional

3 cups baby spinach

¼ cup Italian flat leaf parsley

1½ tbsp red wine vinegar

In a large saucepan, sauté leeks, celery, and garlic in oil over medium heat for 10 minutes. Stir in broth, tomatoes, kale, zucchini, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer covered, 5 minutes, stirring once. Remove from heat and let cool 30 minutes.
Place half of the mixture into the Vitamix container and secure the lid.
Start the blender on its lowest speed, then quickly increase to its highest speed. Blend for 30 to 40 seconds.
Repeat with the second batch. After blending, remove lid and add in fresh spinach, parsley and vinegar. Secure the lid.
Select Variable 6. Pulse 5 times. Serve immediately.
Notes: Garnish with diced tomatoes and fresh herbs.