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Easy Minestrone

Serves: 4-5

Difficulty: Easy

Prep time: 8 minutes

Cook time: 30-40 minutes

Great soup is at your fingertips! Give this recipe a try for an extremely healthy and hearty meal.

2 medium carrots, chopped

1 celery rib, thinly sliced

1 small onion, chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

3 cups water or veggie broth

1 can, 14.5 oz, stewed or diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can, 14.5 oz, kidney beans, drained and rinsed slightly

¾ tsp dried basil

1 cup spinach, fresh or frozen

2/3 cup cooked pasta, any shape

salt and pepper to taste

In a saucepan, sauté carrots, celery, onion and garlic in oil for 5 minutes. Add water/broth, tomatoes, and beans; bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Stir in spinach, macaroni and pepper; heat through.

Notes

Sauté one cup chopped cabbage with the carrots, celery and onion for some added texture and fiber.

Italian stewed tomatoes would add a nice layer of flavor.

This soup would be great with or without the pasta; for even more fiber, try using a whole-wheat variety.

If available in your area, you can try substituting edamame (green soy beans) instead of the kidney beans.