July Recipes - Day 18 - Slow Cooker Minestrone

[alexcat]

Slow Cooker Minestrone

(ideal size slow cooker is the 6 quart size)

1 large onion, chopped
4 carrots, sliced
3 ribs celery, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 TBSP olive oil
6 oz can tomato paste
14.5 oz can chicken, beef, or vegetable broth
2 15 oz cans kidney beans, undrained
10-12 oz pkg frozen green beans (or you can used frozen mixed veggies)
1 medium zucchini, sliced
8 cups water
2 TBSP parsley
2 TBSP Italian spices
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 cup small pasta
grated parmesan

1. saute onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in oil until tender.
2. combine all ingredients except pasta and cheese in slow cooker
3. cover, cook 4-5 hours on high, or 8-9 hours on low, adding pasta
1 hour before cooking is complete.
4. top individual servings with parmesan.

Note: This makes a good 8-10 servings.