Italian Meatball Soup

16 - 20 Make Ahead Meatballs thaw if frozen

2 medium carrots, finely chopped

2 stalks celery, finely chopped

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 Tblsp tomato paste

4 garlic cloves pressed or minced

1 Tblsp Italian seasoning blend

1 - 28oz can crushed tomatoes

2 C beef broth

2 C water

salt and pepper to taste

in soup pot with a little olive oil, cook vegetables until tender 4-5 minutes

push vegetables to one side and add tomato paste

cook tomato paste until it begins to caramelize

add garlic and seasonings, mix well

stir in tomatoes, broth and water and bring to a simmer

cut meatballs in half

add to soup and simmer additional 15 - 30 minutes

serve with croutons

Until Next Time.....

Franny