Minestrone Soup

This soup turned out so beautifully colorful and satisfied our craving for something warm, and full of healthy tasty vegetables.  I added more pasta than called for in hopes that would help our kiddos eat it better...next time I think we'll enjoy more broth.  It was so yummy and we look forward to enjoying it again!

Yield:  4 servings

Ingredients:
1 T extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/3 cup chopped celery
1 carrot, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
4 cups chicken broth
2 large tomatoes, seeded, chopped (or one can diced tomatoes)
1 cup chopped fresh spinach

1 (16 oz) can chickpeas (or red kidney beans) drained & rinsed (we left these out this time)

1/2 cup uncooked small-shell pasta (or other small pasta)

1 small zucchini, diced

2 T chopped fresh basil (or 1 t. dried)

Directions:

1. In large saucepan, heat oil and saute carrots, celery and onion till softened (about 5 minutes).  Add garlic, cook a minute more. 

2. Stir in broth, tomatoes, spinach, chickpeas (or beans) and pasta.  Bring to boil over high heat, reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes. 

3.  Add zucchini, cover and cook additional 5 minutes more.

4.  Remove from heat, stir in basil.  Portion into bowls and serve.

Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

Yield:  Approximately 16 cups of mix (48 servings)

Ingredients:
10 cups powdered milk (we use powdered RiceMilk)
4 cups powdered sugar
2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups powdered non-dairy creamer (your choice of flavor, hazelnut, cinnamon, caramel, vanilla, etc.)

Directions:

1. Stir together all ingredients in large mixing bowl until well combined.  Store in airtight container (or multiple containers if gifting).

2.  For one serving, mix together 1/3 cup cocoa mix and 3/4 cups hot or boiling water to dissolve mix.  Cool to desired temperature and enjoy!