Magic Minestrone

Mirj's Note:

I got this recipe from Self magazine, it's a great way to get in your daily veggies and fiber!

• Total Time: 45 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins

Ingredients:

Yield: 12 cups

• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 30 ounces broth
• 3 carrots , diced
• 1 (14 ½ ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 lb zucchini , cut into 1/2 inch slices
• ¼ lb green beans , cut in 1 inch pieces
• 3 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup quick-cooking barley
• 1 (15 ounce) can white beans
• 8 cups spinach leaves

Directions:

1. In a large pot, over medium heat, cook the garlic, onion, celery and thyme in the olive oil, stirring, for 2 minutes, or until softened.
2. Add the broth, carrots, tomatoes, zucchini, green beans, water and salt.
3. Bring to a boil.
4. Add barley.
5. Reduce heat, simmer 15 minutes.
6. Stir in white beans and spinach, cook 5 more minutes.

Reviews

[Babs in Toyland]

I made this last night and my husband (the vegetable hater) loved it. I used brown rice instead of barley just because that is what I had on hand and sprinkled a little grated Parmigiano Reggiano on top. It was very delicious - so glad you posted it Mirjam.

[tuke]

excellent soup easy to make i'll be making it again

[lyttleradish]

A tasty and straight-foreward recipe. I also added Parmesan to the broth. Be sure to saute the initial mixture enough time or the broth will be watery. I will make it again.