Tortellini Soup

This makes a large, healthy and hearty serving of delicious soup that tastes excellent the second day. You can add different or additional vegetables and it will still turn out great.

1 lb mild italian sausage
1 c. chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
5 cups beef broth
1/2 c. water
8 oz. tortellini pasta
1 c. sliced carrots
2 c. stewed tomatoes
1/2 t. dried basil
1/2 t. dried oregano
8 oz. tomato sauce
1-1/2 c. zucchini
2 green bell peppers, seeded and cubed
1 c. frozen spinach
3 T. fresh parsley

1. Remove casings from sausage and saute in large pot until crumbly. Remove sausage from pot. Add garlic and onion to pot and saute until tender.

2. Add broth, water, carrots, tomatoes, basil, oregano, tomato sauce and cooked sausage. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes uncovered.

3. Add peppers, spinach, parsley and tortellini. Simmer another 25 minutes, covered. Serve with fresh parmesan cheese on top.