Classic Minestrone

==Description==
This famous Italian soup has been much imitated around the world with very different results. The homemade version is a delicious revelation and is also extremely healthy, as it has pasta, beans, and fresh vegetables. Try to make the minestrone a day early and refrigerate as this improves the flavors. Serve with grated Parmesan and the chopped, fresh parsley.
==Ingredients==
* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 leek, sliced
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
* 4 ounces green beans, cut into 1 inch pieces
* 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
* 1 ½ quart vegetable stock, store-bought or homemade
* 1 pound chopped tomatoes
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
* 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, with liquid
* ¼ cup elbow macaroni
* 3 tsp. salt, rock or iodized only
* 3 tsp. ground black pepper
==Directions==
# Heat olive oil in a large saucepan, over moderate heat. Add the leek, carrots, zucchini, green beans and celery.
# Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally.
# Mix up the vegetable stock, tomatoes, and thyme.
# Bring to a boil, replace the lid, and reduce heat to low; just simmer gently for 30 minutes.
# Mix up the cannellini beans with liquid and pasta. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.
# Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving, but scooping some of the contents into a large, fresh bowl.
==Videos==
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== Contributed by: ==
* Catsrecipes Y-Group
Category:Cathy's Recipes
Category:World Recipes
Category:Soup Recipes
Category:Dinner Recipes
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Category:Vegetable stock and broth Recipes
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Category:Celery Recipes
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Category:Cannellini bean Recipes