Minestrone Soup

Pin It This is a hearty soup that can be used as a main dish. It made enough for two meals for my family so we've got one in the freezer for an easy meal soon.

Special Equipment: none
Time Management:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:
5 slices bacon, cut into bit size pieces
1 cup of onion, chopped
2 stocks celery, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
28 0z Italian style tomatoes
1/2 cup parsley, chopped
6 cups chicken broth
1 can garbanzo beans
1 can pinto beans
1 can black beans
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp oregano
2 cups small pasta
Parmesan cheese

Directions:
Saute bacon in a large pot 5 minutes. Add onion and celery and cook until vegetables are soft, but not brown, about 5 minutes.

Add carrots and minced garlic, cook 2 minutes more. Add tomatoes, parsley, chicken broth, beans, basil and oregano. Simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes, stirring occastionally. Add the pasta and cook for 8 minutes (or according to package). Add additional chicken broth or water if needed.

Sprinkle individual bowls with Parmesan cheese before serving.