ITALIAN SAUSAGE MINESTRONE

Steps:

• Remove the Italian sausage from its casings rolling them into small to medium sized meatballs. Add the meatballs to a hot stockpot let them brown on all sides then transfer the meatballs to paper towels to drain. Keeping the pot hot with the drippings of sausage add 1 tbsp olive oil and drop in the onions, garlic, red bell peppers, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper and sauté until fragrant and clear. Add the Serrano Chile and the meatballs sauté for another minute or two then add the diced tomatoes, along with the tomatoes add the cans of kidney and garbanzo beans. Let this come to a simmer, add the basil and oregano. Add the water slowly and finishing with a can of tomato sauce. Let the soup come to a simmer then add salt, pepper, and carrots. Simmer the soup on medium low for 30 minutes until flavors marry. Once the soup is simmered add the zucchini, cabbage, spinach, and the pasta. The soup is done when all vegetables are cooked through and pasta is al dente. Add salt and pepper for taste. Serve with parmesan cheese and crusty bread.