"This hearty minestrone soup is thicker than most recipes. It's filled with colorful vegetables, plenty of spices, and a rich texture...."
INGREDIENTS
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2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 cup chopped yellow onion (1/2 of a large onion)
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1 cup sliced or diced carrots (1-2 large carrots or a handful of baby carrots)
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1 cup sliced or diced celery (2-3 stalks)
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1 cup sliced or diced zucchini (about 1 small)
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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a bunch of Italian seasoning (I used a generous Tablespoon)*
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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5-6 cups vegetable or chicken broth*
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2 cups water
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2-3 teaspoons red wine vinegar*
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1 bay leaf
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1 (14 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed*
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1 (14 ounce) can butter beans, drained and rinsed*
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1 (14 ounce) can green beans, drained and rinsed*
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1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (do not drain)
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1 (8 ounce) can tomato paste
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1 and 1/3 cups uncooked rice or pasta*
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3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
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parmesan cheese, for serving