A winter classic, this crock pot version of minestrone is heavy on the vegetables and light on the pasta, keeping carbs in check while providing plenty of flavor.
Ingredients:
4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
3 stalks celery, chopped
1 small red onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 (15 ounce) cans no-sodium-added red kidney beans, rinsed
6 cups no-sodium-added vegetable broth, such as kitchen basics
2 tablespoons italian seasoning
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
¾ teaspoon salt, divided
½ teaspoon ground pepper
1 large zucchini, chopped
4 ounces whole-wheat pasta elbows or other small pasta (about 1 cup)
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Directions:
Combine carrots, celery, onion, garlic, green beans, kidney beans, tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper in a 6- to 8-qt. slow cooker. Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours.
Stir in zucchini, pasta, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cover and cook on Low until the pasta is tender, 15 to 20 minutes more. Serve immediately, topping each serving with about 1 1/2 tablespoons Parmesan.
