2 large potatoes or turnips, peeled if you like and cut into small chunks
1cup chopped tomatoes (canned are fine; don’t bother to drain)
1 medium zucchini, cut into small chunks
1 bunch sturdy leafy greens like kale or escarole, chopped
1/2cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
Put the oil in a large pot over medium heat. When it’s hot, add the onion, carrot, and celery; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and begin to darken around the edges, 10 to 15 minutes.
Add the potatoes and sprinkle with a little more salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are all brown in spots, 5 to 10 minutes. Add 6 cups water, stirring to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the tomatoes, bring the mixture to a boil, and then lower the heat so the mixture bubbles steadily. Cook, stirring every now and then, until the tomatoes break down a bit, about 15 minutes.
Add the zucchini and greens and raise the heat if necessary to keep the mixture at a steady bubble. Cook until all the vegetables are very tender, another 10 to 15 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning and serve topped with the cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.