MEATBALL MINESTRONE

MEATBALL MINESTRONE image

Yield 6-8 people

Number Of Ingredients 10

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Spinach Meatballs:
1 pkg. thawed 10 oz pkg chopped frozen spinach; squeezing out all liquid. Combine with 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef, 1/3 cup fine dry bread crumbs, 1 egg, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper until well blended. Shape into 1 inch balls.
1 tablespoon salad oil
1 large onion, chopped
5 cans beef broth (approx 10 cups)
1 can (about 1 lb.) stewed or diced tomatoes.
1 can (about 1 lb.) red kidney beans
1/2 teaspoon EACH oregano leaves and dry basil
1 cup EACH sliced carrots and sliced celery
1 cup bow shaped macaroni or other small pasta.

Steps:

Prepare spinach meatballs. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat; add meatballs and cook, turning often, until browned on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside. Add onion to drippings in pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is soft (about 10 minutes). Stir in stock, tomatoes, beans and their liquid, oregano, and basil. Bring to a boil over high heat; reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 more minutes. Add carrots and celery; cover and simmer for 10 more minutes. Stir in macaroni; cover and simmer until macaroni is tender (about 10 more minutes). Add meatballs and heat until steaming. Serve with plenty of grated parmesan cheese and crusty bread.