2mediumcarrots, trimmed, scrubbed and cut into 1/2-inch dice
2mediumstalks celery, washed and cut into 1/2-inch dice
3/4cupchopped onion
1smallgreen bell pepper, cored and cut into 1/2-inch dice
1smallred bell pepper, cored and cut into 1/2-inch dice
8clovesgarlic, chopped
1teaspoonground oregano
1teaspoonthyme
1teaspoonrosemary
1teaspoonbasil
1cupdry whole wheat pasta, Penne or Rotin
3tablespoonsbalsamic vinegar
pepper to taste
Instructions
For the Soup
In large soup pot combine everything except pasta, vinegar, and black pepper; bring to a boil over high heat; reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered until carrots are tender crisp, stirring occasionally.
Add pasta and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
Stir in vinegar and season with pepper. Serve in warm bread bowls if desired.
TIP: To lower the sodium content of this soup either purchase unsalted beans, or simply rinse the canned beans thoroughly before using. You can also purchase unsalted vegetable stock and tomatoes. As you can see by the recipe we have not ADDED any salt; only herbs and pepper as seasonings.
Nutrition Information
One serving provides approximately: 210 calories, 10 g protein, 40 g carbohydrates, 6 g fiber, 1.5 g fat (0 g saturated), 0 mg cholesterol, 35 mcg folate, 3.5 mg iron and 1040 mg sodium (which could be reduced by following the "TIP" given above)