minnestrone soup

Here's another recipe I love to make. This is a wonderful recipe and a slight departure from the typical minestrone which often contains pasta. Minestrone means "big soup" and this makes a lot! Plan about 40 minutes to chop all the veggies and put together the soup - it's worth it!

For a family of four can get 2-3 meals from this depending on portion size. It freezes well so you can always have some on hand.

2 T olive oil
1 c. chopped onion
2 c. coarsely chopped carrots
4 stalks coarsely chopped celery
2 c. chopped tomatoes
4 1/2 c. water
2 small zucchini, coarsely chopped
1 c. green beans in 1-inch lengths
2 medium potatoes cubed
3 c. coarsely chopped spinach
2 c. small white beans
1 T sea salt (more to taste if needed)
1/2 tsp. pepper
2 tsp fresh basil
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
2 tsp dried rosemary

Optional: rind of parmesan or romano cheese or few tablespoon grated

In stockpot, heat oil and add the onion, carrots and celery. Saute until soft. Add tomatoes and cook a few more minutes. Add all the remaining ingredients, bring to a boil then simmer about one hour. Taste for seasonings and add additional if desired. Great with fresh bread.