Hearty Minestrone

Packed full of the the things we love - noodles, beans and veggies, it definitely hits the spot on a cold winter day!

Ingredients

3 Tablespoons olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

2 ribs celery, chopped

2 carrots, peeled and sliced

3 cups water

1 (28 ounce) can Italian plum tomatoes, chopped

1 (10 ounce) package frozen lima beans

1 (16 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram

3 Tablespoons GOLDEN BLOSSOM HONEY

salt and pepper

1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach

1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni or orzo

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

Honey Tips

Honey Is One of the Oldest Foods

Honey is one of the oldest foods in existence. It was found in the tomb of King Tut and was still edible since honey never spoils.

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté garlic, celery and carrots for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in water. Cover and simmer over low heat until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add tomatoes, with their juices, lima beans and drained kidney beans. Bring to a boil. Stir in marjoram and honey. Reduce heat, cover and simmer about 30 minutes. Add frozen spinach, simmer covered, another 5 minutes. Mix in macaroni and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally until macaroni is cooked, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Garnish with additional Parmesan, if desired. Serves 4-6.