Minestrone Not-Beef Soup

This easy soup has a beefy flavor and plenty of protein. The whole family will love this comfort food!

Serves 4-6.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
• 3 c water
• 2 beef flavored vegetarian bouillon cubes
• 1 (15 oz) can peas with liquid
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1 c green beans, trimmed, cut in thirds
• 1 yellow pepper, chopped
• 1 medium carrot, sliced
• 1 c Beef (Not) Strips or any beef flavored TVP strips
• 1 c elbow macaroni
• 1 Tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp marjoram
• grated Parmesan, dairy or vegan (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large, heavy pot over medium low heat, warm the olive oil. Add onions; saute 8 minutes.
2. Add garlic; saute another minute.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, water, bouillon cubes, peas, celery, green beans, yellow pepper, carrot, and Beef (Not) Strips, Bring to simmer on medium heat. Reduce heat; simmer 15 minutes.
4. Stir in the macaroni, Worcestershire, pepper and marjoram. Bring back to heat and simmer, stirring often, for another 8 minutes.
5. Serve hot with a sprinkling of Parmesan.