Minestrone Soup

Minestrone Soup

MINESTRONE (ITALIAN VEGETABLE SOUP)  

2 tbsp. olive oil
1-2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 lg. diced onion
2 c. diced potatoes
1 c. diced celery
1 c. sliced zucchini
1 c. green beans
2 c. shredded cabbage
4 c. beef or chicken broth
2 c. peeled tomatoes
1 can cannellini or northern beans
1/2 lb. sm. shell pasta
Chopped parsley & basil
Fresh ground pepper

Saute garlic and onion. Add potatoes, celery, carrots and stir a few minutes. Add broth and 2 cups of water, bring to boil then add peeled tomatoes. Cook for about 10 minutes, then add zucchini, green beans and cabbage, bring to boil. Add parsley, basil and beans, let simmer until vegetables are almost ready. Bring to boil, add pepper and salt to taste. Add dried shell pasta. Cook 8 to 10 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle grated cheese on each serving. Makes 6 servings.