Vegetarian Minestrone

1 cup dried Great Northern beans or 2 cans Northern beans

2 fresh tomatoes, chopped

2 cups water

3 carrots, sliced

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon dried oregano

2 cup cabbage, chopped

¾ cup dry sm. Pasta shells

1 14 oz. can tomatoes

5 cups tomato juice

1 onion, chopped

2 stalks celery, sliced

1 ½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon dried thyme

pepper to taste

2 small unpeeled zucchini, sliced

freshly grated parmesan cheese

 

Soak beans over night or boil, until soft. Place beans, tomato products, seasonings, carrots, and celery in large pot. Bring to boil then reduce heat and simmer for 1 ½ hour. Add cabbage, zucchini, and pasta. Continue to simmer until pasta is tender, about 20 minutes. Serve with fresh grated parmesan cheese.           - Tricia Munk