Minestrone

Ingredients

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 onion, diced

2 large carrots, peeled and diced

4 stalks celery, diced

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 zucchini, diced

salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

32 oz canned diced tomatoes

32 oz chicken or vegetable stock

8 oz ditalini pasta

Optional toppings: parmesan cheese, parsley, crushed red pepper

Directions

In a large soup pot over medium heat add the olive oil and onions, carrots and celery. Saute for about 5 minutes or until they start to soften. Add in the garlic and sauce 2 more minutes.

Add in the zucchini and continue cooking for about 3-4 more minutes. Season with salt, pepper and Italian seasoning.

Add in the canned diced tomatoes, chicken stock and beans and bring to a simmer. Taste and season with more salt and pepper if necessary.

While you are waiting for the soup to simmer, cook the pasta in a separate pot to 1 minutes less than the package directions. When the pasta is cooked drain and add it to the soup.

Serve hot and enjoy with Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper!