Minestrone Soup

Minestrone is the name for a variety of thick Italian soups made with vegetables and often with pasta or rice.  Nine grams of fiber and 14 grams of protein per serving make this minestrone soup a health-conscious  meal.

Ingredients:

3 14-ounce cans beef broth

1 15-ounce can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 15-ounce can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained

1 14-1/2-ounce can low-sodium stewed tomatoes

1 11-1/2-ounce can vegetable juice (did not use in mine as I didn't have it on hand)

1 6-ounce can tomato paste

2 teaspoons sugar

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, crushed

1-1/2 cups loose-pack frozen mixed vegetables (such as an Italian blend)

2 cups fresh spinach leaves, cut into strips

2 cups cooked pasta (1 cup uncooked), such as small shells or mostaccioli

Finely shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

In a large kettle combine broth, beans, stewed tomatoes, vegetable juice, tomato paste, sugar, and Italian seasoning.
Bring to boiling.
Add mixed vegetables. Reduce heat. Cover and simmer about 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Add spinach and cooked pasta; heat through.
To serve, ladle into bowls.
If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Makes 8 main-dish servings.

Submitted by:  Caroline G.
Source:  Yahoo Shine Recipes