Yummy Minestrone

2 teaspoons Extra Light olive oil

1/2 cup diced celery

3/4 cup chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz.) diced tomatoes

3 cups low-sodium, low-fat chicken broth

3 cups V-8 vegetable juice

8 oz. can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 cup each chopped carrots, chopped zucchini, chopped green cabbage

2 oz. small shells, macaroni or other small pasta, uncooked

2 bay leaf

3 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

2 teaspoons basil

1 teaspoon oregano

1/2 teaspoon thyme

1/2 teaspoon pepper

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.  Add the onion, celery and garlic, stirring constantly. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften.  Add the remaining ingredients, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, partially covered for 30 minutes.

Makes 8 Servings

Per serving:  128 calories; 5.7 g protein; 2.1  g fat; 0 g saturated fat; 23.3 g carbohydrate; 2 g fiber; 200 mg calcium; 402.4 mg sodium; 0 mg cholesterol.  14% calories from fat.