A Recipe For You

I thought I would share one of our family's favorite soup recipes with you today. Consider it a winter bonus! Years ago, I was "gifted" this recipe in a letter from a dear friend. Don't you love gifts like that? The recipe is for Chunky Minestrone Soup. It is warming. Satisfying. Healthy. And DELICIOUS! The soup is also versatile. I can make it vegetarian or with a bit of meat. I can add extra vegetables like spinach easily. If you happen to be gluten-free, you can leave out the pasta or add gluten-free pasta. I have made this soup so many different ways--and it is fail proof. Not to mention, the hearty nature of this meal satisfies even the larger appetite people in our home.

CHUNKY MINESTRONE SOUP

1/2 Lb ground sausage (if you want more meat, try 1 Lb)

• 1/2 Lb cooked and browned ground sausage (if you want more meat, try 1 Lb)

• 1 quart of water

• 2 small cans of tomato sauce

• 2 stalks of celery, diced

• 1 onion, diced

• 3 carrots, diced

• 1-15 oz can of beef broth (or your favorite veggie substitute)

• 1-15 oz can of mini diced tomatoes

• 1/2 t basil

• 1 t oregano

• 1 T dried parsley

• 1 T sugar

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• pinch of nutmeg

Simmer together in large pot for 3-4 hours. Then add,

• 1 C cooked whole grain pasta (or gluten free)

• 1 can of green beans, drained

• 1 can garbanzo beans

• 1 can yellow beans, drained

If you choose to omit the sausage, feel free to add another variety of beans to the mix. Serve with fresh parmesan on top with either some fresh bread or a simple green salad. Enjoy!

Do you have a favorite winter soup recipe that is a hit in your home? Please feel free to share here.