If you are like a lot of people, the most unsavory part of meal planning is deciding what to have and how to prepare it. Our Recipes remove the hassle. These quick, easy-to-follow and tasty entrees and side dishes are sure to please the entire family. They are easy to prepare and, best of all, having been reviewed by dietitians and nutritionists, you know they are as good for your health as they are good tasting. Give them a try. You won't be disappointed.
Do-It-Yourself Minestrone Soup
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion (about 1/2-cup chopped)
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 stalk celery, sliced
1 clove garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic flakes)
1 tablespoon pot herbs
1 14-1/2-ounce can reduced-sodium chicken broth (about 2 cups)
1 14-1/2-ounce can no-salt-added diced tomatoes plus 1 can of water
1 19-ounce can cannellini (white kidney) or other beans, no salt added
1/2 cup frozen peas
1 cup cooked elbow macaroni
Directions
In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and pot herbs. Cook, stirring, just until onions look slightly wilted. Add chicken broth, tomatoes, water, and beans. Bring just to a boil, then turn heat to low and simmer about 10 minutes or until carrots are done. Add frozen peas and macaroni to hot soup and serve.
Serves 4
Each 1/2-cup serving contains about 250 calories, 10 g protein, 4 g fat, 41 g carbohydrates, 10 g fiber, and 404 mg sodium.
