Green Minestrone

== Ingredients ==
* grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
* salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 lb leeks (white and pale green parts), well rinsed and diced (4½ cups)
* 1 cup diced carrots
* 1 tbsp water
* 6 to 8 cups vegetable broth
* ½ cup small pasta shapes
* 1 x 19 oz can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 cup sliced green beans
* 1 cup diced zucchini
* 1 cup fresh or frozen small green peas
* 1 cup diagonally sliced, trimmed fresh asparagus
* 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
* 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
* 2 green onions, coarsely chopped
* 1 clove garlic, minced
== Directions ==
# In large pot, heat oil over medium heat.
# Add leeks, carrots and water.
# Cover and cook until the leeks are very tender, about 15 minutes. Do not brown.
# Add 6 cups of broth and bring to a boil.
# Add pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until almost tender, about 10 minutes.
# Add beans, green beans, zucchini, peas and asparagus.
# Simmer, uncovered, over medium heat, until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
# In small bowl, mix parsley, basil, green onions and garlic.
# Stir into simmering soup.
# Add additional broth to thin soup if necessary.
# Season with salt and pepper.
# Serve with grated Parmesan if desired.
Category:Asparagus Recipes
Category:Cannellini bean Recipes
Category:Carrot Recipes
Category:Green bean Recipes
Category:Leek Recipes
Category:Parmesan cheese Recipes
Category:Soup pasta Recipes
Category:Pea Recipes
Category:Vegetable stock and broth Recipes
Category:Vegetarian Soup Recipes