Minestrone in a Minute

This classic Italian favorite is a satisfying bowl full of goodness. The fat content is reduced with turkey sausage rather than the Italian version, but it is every bit as hearty as the original. Make it a meal with salad, or serve it as a savory appetizer.

Ingredients:

• ½ pound turkey sausage, cut into small pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 3 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups frozen Italian blend vegetables
• 1 can (15 ounces) white kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) Italian stewed tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup cooked ditalini or small shell pasta (1/2 cup uncooked)
• 3 tablespoons worcestershire sauce

Directions:

1. In medium saucepan, stir-fry sausage and garlic 5 minutes or until sausage is cooked; drain.
2. Add chicken broth, vegetables, beans and tomatoes. Heat to boiling. Simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender.
3. Stir in pasta and worcestershire. Cook until heated through. Serve with grated cheese and crusty bread, if desired.

Nutrition per Serving:

(Serving size = 1 3/4 cup soup)

• Calories = 231
• Total fat = 6 g
• Saturated fat = 1 g
• Cholesterol = 33 mg
• Carbohydrate = 25 g
• Protein = 19 g
• Fiber = 6 g
• Sodium = 903 mg

Dietary Exchanges:

• Vegetable = 2
• Meat = 1 ½
• Starch = 1
• Fat = ½

Source: www.diabeticcooking.com