Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden)

3 T. oil
1 small minced onion, or Spice World Easy Onion (found in produce section)
1/2 c. chopped zucchini
1/2 c. Italian green beans
1/2 stalk chopped celery, optional
4 cloves minced garlic, or Spice World minced garlic (found in the produce section)
4 c. vegetable or chicken broth
2 (15 oz.) cans red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
2 (15 oz.) cans white beans, rinsed and drained
14 oz. can diced tomatoes, drained, I use Del Monte with basil, garlic, and oregano, undrained
1/2 c. shredded carrot, optional
2 T. parsley
1 1/2 t. oregano*
1 1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. pepper
1/2 t. basil*
1/4 t. thyme*
3 c. hot water
4 c. fresh baby spinach,  I substitute broccoli, since I can't have spinach.
1/2 c. small shell pasta
parmesan cheese

Measure oil into large stock pot and heat on medium. Place onion, celery, garlic, green beans, and zucchini in pot and saute for 5 minutes or until onions become translucent. Add broth, tomatoes, white and red beans, carrots, hot water and spices* to pot. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes. Add spinach/broccoli and pasta and cook an additional 20 minutes. Recipe may be doubled.

*can also use Italian seasoning, instead of individual spices

May also be made in the crockpot. Place a liner in crockpot, add all ingredients, except oil, pasta and broccoli. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4. Stir, add the pasta and broccoli/spinach during the last half hour. Top with parmesan cheese. Serve with crackers, broccoli cornbread, Caesar salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches, whichever you prefer. 

This is a very hearty and filling soup. 





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