Quick Minestrone Soup

Quick Minestrone Soup

1 tbsp. vegetable oil                                                   1 tsp. dried Italian seasoning

2 cups carrots, chopped                                              ¼ tsp. salt

1 cup onion, chopped                                                  2 cups cabbage or spinach, sliced

3 cloves garlic, chopped                                             2 cups small white navy beans, cooked

1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes                                2/3 cup small pasta, cooked

1 (8-oz.) can chicken broth

1 cup water

Heat oil in a large, heavy saucepan over medium heat.  Add carrots, onion, and garlic.  Stir 10 minutes or until vegetables are crisp tender.  Stir in tomatoes, broth, water, Italian seasoning, and salt; bring to a boil.  Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until carrots are tender.  Add the cabbage or spinach, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.  Stir in beans and pasta; simmer 1 minute or until hot.

Makes 8 servings.

Each serving provides 138 calories, 6 grams protein, 24 grams carbohydrate, 2 grams fat, 414 milligrams sodium, 5 grams fiber.