Slow Cooker Vegetarian Pasta e Fagioli Soup with Whole Wheat Orzo
INGREDIENTS
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(4-5 quart size) will work.)
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Ingredients: 2 T olive oil
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1 large onion, chopped
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1 cup sliced celery
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1/2 cup chopped carrots
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1 T minced garlic
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1 tsp. Italian Herb Blend (Use any brand of Italian seasoning that you have.)
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2-3 tsp. Spike Seasoning (Or substitute any type of all-purpose seasoning blend that you like.)
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1/2 tsp. ground fennel (probably optional, but it adds a lot of flavor.)
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1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
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2 cans (15 oz.) red beans, rinsed and drained
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3 cans (14 oz.) vegetable broth (or use homemade vegetable stock, which would be fantastic in this)
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8 oz. can tomato sauce
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salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
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several pieces Parmesan rind (optional, but does add wonderful flavor to the soup)
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1/2 cup 100% Whole Wheat Orzo Pasta (could substitute any type of small whole wheat pasta, or use brown rice for gluten-free variation)
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2 T good quality balsamic vinegar freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
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chopped fresh parsley for serving
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