Vegetarian Minestrone Soup, Preparation

1. Pre-soak and cook beans according to package directions and set aside. Pre-soaked white beans may take 40 minutes in a pressure cooker. You can also sub two cans of prepared beans to save time.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions and set aside.
3. Heat oil (or use veggie broth) in a heavy bottom pot and add onions and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until onion is softened.
4. Add carrot, celery, green beans, dried herbs, and vegetable broth and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes until green beans are cooked.
5. Add the beans with all there liquid and the tomatoes and bring to simmer, then add the cooked pasta and simmer for another minute. Remove from heat and serve.

   Serving Suggestions

Serve with homemade bread warm from the oven and grated Parmesan cheese.                                                                                                                                                                                                                      The pasta, especially gluten free pasta, is sometimes best kept on the side until the moment that you are ready to serve. Add the pasta to the bowl first, then top with the soup.