Minestrone Soup

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 stalk of celery, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 1 cup of fresh or frozen green beans
• 1 medium zucchini, chopped
• 1 package (10 ounces) of frozen chopped spinach
• 1 can (28 ounces) of tomatoes
• 1/2 cup of uncooked macaroni (could be whole wheat or spinach or other)
• 1 can (15 ounces) of navy beans with juice
• 1/4 teaspoon of basil
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• Water as needed.

Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer about 30 minutes, until all vegetables are tender. Add water if necessary to make enough liquid to cover ingredients.
Makes about 12 cups.
Per 1 1/2 cups: 137 calories, o Cholesterol, 7.5 g. dietary fiber, 1 g fat, 207 mg. sodium.