Beefy Minestrone

Okay, okay...I know that your typical minestrone doesn't contain meat and therefore shouldn't be "beefy". But when you have a husband who thinks a meal is only a meal if it contains some sort of meat product, well, you have to make certain concessions. Therefore, this is the perfect recipe to use up last night's leftover steak or roast to make something flavorful, healthful, and delicious.

½ onion, chopped 

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 stalks celery, chopped

10-15 baby carrots, chopped

1 tsp. oregano

1 tsp. basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 can (14-oz) diced tomatoes (with Italian herbs)

1 can (14-oz) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15-oz) dark red kidney beans

½ cup red wine

6 cups chicken broth

1 cup lean steak, diced

1 cup pasta (egg noodles, elbow macaroni, shells – all work well)

In a large crockpot, combine all ingredients except pasta. Cook on low 5-7 hours. Add pasta for the last 10-15 minutes of cook time, until noodles are tender but not overcooked.