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Each region of Italy, not to mention every household, has its own version of vegetable soup. Loaded with garlic and pasta, mine takes its inspiration from southern Italy. I have substituted soybeans for the usual white beans, which gives the soup more texture and higher protein value.
Preparation facts
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hr 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
2 Tbs (30mL) olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 leek, white and tender green parts, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 Roma tomatoes, coarsely chopped
8 cups (1.9L) vegetable stock
2 sprigs fresh oregano, stems removed
1 package (10 oz. or 285g) frozen peas
1 can (14 oz. or 400g) cooked soybeans
8 oz (230g) small elbow pasta
6 fresh basil leaves, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste (sea salt if on a corn-free diet*)
Directions
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium and sauté the onions, celery, and leek for 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
Add the tomatoes, vegetable stock, oregano, peas and soybeans, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the pasta, salt, and pepper and continue to cook for 20 minutes. Stir in the basil and serve immediately.
* Allergy notes: People following a corn-free diet should avoid iodized salt since it contains dextrose, which should be avoided by those allergic to corn.
Nutrition facts
Copyright 2007, Healthnotes, Inc., 1505 S.E. Gideon St., Suite 200, Portland, Oregon 97202, www.Healthnotes.com.
2006-09-07

