Minestrone Soup

I thought cravings stopped when the pregnancy was over, but apparently they don't! I had a stray craving for kale again that inspired this soup. Traditionally, minestrone contains shredded cabbage and/or spinach, but kale is in season and delicious. As it turns out, this soup is very satisfying and flavorful, while still being incredibly simple to make.

I served this with corn muffins, but any fresh bread or popover would be delicious.

Minestrone Soup
1 1/2 c chicken stock
14 oz can of diced tomatoes, undrained
16 oz can kidney beans, drained & rinsed
14 oz can green beans, drained
2 leaves kale, coursely chopped
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp basil
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/3 c small pasta shells, cooked

In a saucepan, combine the first nine ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes. Add the cooked pasta just before serving, so they don't get water-logged.

By the way, this would be a great candidate for a crock pot soup, too.