Asparagus and Spinach Minestrone Soup

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil
• 2 small leeks, white and light green parts (thinly sliced)
• 1 large yellow bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 bunch asparagus (ends trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 garlic cloves (peeled and minced)
• 1 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 20 oz can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups cooked or canned navy beans (drained and rinsed)
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 4 cups spinach
• Juice of 1/2 lemon