White Bean Soup with Asparagus and Peas

Step 1

In a large saucepan, cover the beans with enough water to reach 2 inches above them and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to moderate and simmer for 30 minutes. Add a generous pinch of salt and cook until the beans are tender, 15 to 20 minutes longer. Drain the beans.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, bring the chicken stock to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the farfalle pasta and cook over high heat until barely al dente, about 12 minutes. Add the asparagus pieces and beans and cook until the asparagus is crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Add the peas, chopped parsley, mint, thyme, oregano, lemon zest and lemon juice. Simmer until the vegetables are just tender and the pasta is al dente, 2 to 3 minutes longer. Season with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve, passing the cheese at the table.