Arborio Rice and Savoy Cabbage Soup

Arborio Rice and Savoy Cabbage Soup

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 small savoy cabbage, shredded

1 teaspoon thyme

1 teaspoon basil

dash of cayenne 

6 cups vegetable broth

½ cup Arborio rice

4 slices whole grain bread

2 cloves garlic, halved

Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish, optional

1. Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. 
2. Add cabbage, and stir to coat with oil. 
3. Stir in broth, thyme, basil, and cayenne, and season with salt and pepper. 
4. Cover, and bring to a boil. 
5. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer 15 minutes.
6. Stir in rice, and season with salt once more. 
7. Cover, and simmer 15 minutes, or until rice is tender.
8. Meanwhile, rub each bread slice with ½ clove garlic. 
9. Toast bread, then cut into fingers or cubes. 
10. Divide garlic toast fingers among 4 soup bowls. 
11. Ladle soup over toast, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.