BEAN, ONION AND SAUSAGE SOUP

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 to 2 large yellow onions, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
3 cups cooked and drained beans, such as Anasazi, mashed
4 to 5 cups good quality chicken or beef stock
1/2 teaspoon pepper
salt, as needed
1 pound (about 5) smoked sausages
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup fresh chopped sage leaves
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

In large ceramic or glass bowl, combine olive oil, onions, carrots, garlic, and thyme. Microwave on high 5 minutes.

Add mashed beans, broth, pepper, and salt. Microwave on high 10 minutes.

Add sausages, sliced into pieces, and microwave about 10 minutes more, or until heated through. Adjust seasonings.

In food processor with steel chopping blade in place, combine oil, sage, and salt. Process until smooth. Drizzle a little over the soup at serving time.