LONGEST LIVING SIBLINGS ALL ATE THE SAME LONGEVITY SOUP

We all want to live a long and healthy life, yet some people in various regions of the world appear to have discovered the key. These areas, referred to as "Blue Zones," have traits in common that encourage longevity, like low stress, a feeling of purpose, and close ties to the community. But the main factor that maintains these cultures' health far into old age is their mostly plant-based diet. Minestrone soup is a straightforward yet potent dish that the people of Sardinia, a region known as the Blue Zone, have perfected and swear by.

One Sardinian family, the Melis siblings, whose astounding total age of 818 years and 205 days set a world record, popularised the hearty, bean-filled stew. They sat around the table every day to eat the same straightforward meal that had been handed down through the generations: a hearty winter soup that was full of nutritious, immune-stimulating components.

Using whatever vegetables are available, each family has their own version, and the recipe changes depending on the season. But it always has its staples: fregula, a Sardinian toasted semolina pasta in the shape of tiny pearls, and beans.

The New York Times best-selling author and co-founder of Blue Zones Kitchen, Dan Buettner, says, "The more I explore what really drives longevity, the more I understand it's starting with a savoury breakfast." The majority of people's beliefs about what lengthens life expectancy are either incorrect or misdirected. Many of the simplest and greatest things are practically right in front of us, particularly when it's a steaming bowl of minestrone.

Rich in plant-based protein, fibre, and antioxidants, the dish is made with a nutritious blend of soaked fava beans, chickpeas, and cranberry beans. It is the ideal comfort food for the winter months since it supports heart health, increases immunity, and has additional nutrition and flavour from fresh veggies, lots of olive oil, and aromatic herbs.