Minestrone

Some of you probably could list in your mind what to put in Minestrone, but for the people like me, this Taste of Homes recipe is pretty helpful.

1 lb bulk Italian Sausage
1 large onion, chopped
2 large carrots, chopped
2 celery ribs, chopped
1 medium leek (white portion only) chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium zucchini, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1/4 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1/2 inch pieces
6 cups beef broth
2 cans (14 1/2 oz each) diced tomatoes with basil, oregano, and garlic
3 cups shredded cabbage
1 tsp. dried basil
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 can (15 oz) garbanzo beans, or chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup uncooked small pasta shells
3 tbsp minced fresh parsley
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

In a soup kettle, cook sausage and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the celery, carrots, leek, and garlic; cook for 3 minutes. Add zucchini and add green beans; cook 2 min. longer. Stir in broth, tomatoes, cabbage, basil, oregano, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Cover; simmer for 45 minutes. Return to a boil. Stir in garbanzo beans, pasta, and parsley. Cook 6-9 minutes or until pasta is tender. Serve with Parmesan Cheese.