Baby, It's Cold Outside

But, at least it's sunny. Today isn't too bad... the high is a balmy 58 degrees! But, Saturday morning's low is 26 - brrrrrrrrr! This Florida girl has gotten much more used to the cold weather. It wasn't too much of a change, since it actually does get chilly in Jacksonville and Gainesville. However, it doesn't last as long. So, I've broken out my houndstooth coat that always gets compliments, my fake pashminas from the $10 store in the airport, and my unusally large collection of cheap gloves. Now, all I need is a car with an automatic starter and heated seats so it's not so cold when I get in and some of this...

Nutritious and Delicious Minestrone
This is a great, light and healthy soup that makes a quick and delicious weeknight (or any night) meal.

Extra virgin olive oil (1-2 tbsp)
2 small onions, diced
1-1/2 c. celery stalk, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 small green bell pepper, diced
1 bay leaf
1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
7 c. low-sodium chicken broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
4 oz. ditalini or other small pasta
1 15 oz can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
salt to taste
parmesan for garnish
parsley for garnish

In a large stock pot, saute the onion, celery and carrots in olive oil over medium heat for about 4 minutes. Add green bell pepper and continue to saute for another 4 minutes or until it all smells really good. Add the tomatoes, broth, garlic, basil and bay leaf. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat and simmer covered for 10 minutes. Add the pasta and simmer for 5 minutes uncovered. Add the beans and simmer for 5-10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Remove the pan from heat, add salt to your liking, and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parmesan and parsley! Mangia!

P.S. I've already eaten some of it... several bowls since I made it, in fact, and it's still delizioso!