Rain, rain, go away...

We've got about a week of rain coming up in the forecast.  Can't complain after the GORGEOUS week we just had, but it's still a bummer...especially when your 2 1/2 year old daughter just wants to "go out in the sunshine".  Cute :)

One of the things I crave during rainy weather, even when it's warmer, is soup.  I made this for my sister after she came home from the hospital.  It came together very easily and was a big hit!  Many of the ingredients can be subbed based on what you like and/or have, but this combination was delicious.  

By the way, this was definitely a lot less soupy than I expected...almost more of a "stoup", as much as I hate using that term :)

Beef Minestrone Soup

from Taste of Home

1/2 cup medium uncooked pasta shells

1 pound ground beef

1/2 cup chopped onion

3 cans (14 1/2 ounces each) beef broth

1 package (16 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables

1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste

3 teaspoons Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon dried basil

1/4 teaspoon pepper

While pasta is cooking, cook beef and onion over in a dutch oven until meat is no longer pink.  Drain.

Stir in the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 15 minutes.  Drain pasta and add to the pan.  Simmer for about another 5 minutes.  

Serves 6.

Linked to: What's On Your Plate