Beef Minestrone Soup

My house smelled so good this afternoon.  As I've mentioned before, I love a big pot of soup.  This minestrone soup which is full of veggies, protein and fiber will warm you up on a cold day. It can be made ahead because the flavor actually improves over time.  It is the best kind of recipe, very versatile.  I have left out the beef and the pasta and used the base of the soup as a meal starter.  You can add whatever veggies you like, such as red pepper, green pepper, or cabbage.  I sometimes add fresh spinach during the last 3 minutes of cooking until wilted for another nutritious boost.  For a different flavor, swap out the beef for Italian Sausage.  There really are so many options. Hope you enjoy!

Beef Minestrone Soup
1  pound ground beef
2  large carrots, peeled and chopped
2  celery ribs, chopped
1  onion, chopped
4  cloves garlic, minced
1  medium zucchini, cut into 1/2" dice
6  cups reduced sodium chicken broth
2  cans cannelloni beans, rinsed and drained
2  cans fire roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
1  tablespoon tomato paste
2  bay leaves
1  tablespoon Italian Seasoning
1/4  teaspoon pepper
Pinch of hot pepper flakes
1  cup Ditalini Pasta, or other small pasta


Garnish:
Fresh Italian Parsley
Parmesan Cheese 


In a large Dutch Oven cook beef, carrots, celery and onion over medium heat until meat it is no longer pink.  Drain.  Add the diced zucchini and minced garlic, cook for 2 minutes.  


Add broth, beans, tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaves, Italian Seasoning, pepper, red pepper flakes.  Bring to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer covered for about 30 minutes.  Uncover and add pasta.  Simmer uncovered until pasta is al dente, about 6-8 minutes.  


Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh Italian Parsley and Parmesan Cheese.


Cooks Note:  This soup freezes really well.  Cook it up to the point before you add the pasta.  I ladle into ziplock bags and freeze flat in the freezer.  When your ready to use, just thaw and heat soup to a simmer and add your pasta. Cook until pasta is al dente.  


Enjoy!


Kim