*  Exported from  MasterCook  *

                            Tuscan Minestrone

Recipe By     : 
Serving Size  : 10   Preparation Time :0:00
Categories    : Soups

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   3                    Slices thin bacon -- diced
   1      tablespoon    Olive or salad oil
   1      large         Onion; peeled -- diced
   2                    Leeks; white parts only -- cleaned, scraped
   2                    Cloves garlic -- crushed
   1      large         Carrot; scraped -- diced
   2      cups          Green cabbage -- shredded
   2                    Zucchini; about 1/2 lb each -- washed, stemmed and
   1      can           (1 lb) white or kidney beans -- drained
   1      cup           Small pasta or spaghetti -- broken up
     1/2  cup           Grated Parmesan cheese

Combine bacon, oil, onion, leeks, and garlic in a large kettle. Cook over low heat 5 minutes. 
 Add carrot and cabbage; saute 5 minutes. Add zucchini, tomatoes, potatoes, water, salt,
 and pepper.  Bring to a boil. Lower heat and cook slowly, covered, 25 minutes.
 Add beans and pasta and cook 15 minutes longer, until pasta is just tender and
 vegetables are cooked. Serve in large soup bowls sprinkled with cheese. Serves 10 to 12.


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