Easy Vegetable Pasta Soup (Crockpot Meals)

I love soup during the frigid days of Winter. Thick, hearty, comforting soup. Vegetable Soup has always been one of my favorites and this slow cooker version is about is easy as they come.

 

What could be easier than throwing all of the vegetables in the slow cooker, turning it on low and just going on about your business during the day?  When dinner arrives, lifting the lid and ladeling out big bowls of piping hot, vegetable soup. 

 

I know I've said it about a billion times but I HEART MY SLOW COOKER!  One of the most brilliant inventions for busy families!  Ever! 

 

I know I’ve said it time and time again, but slow cookers are one of the most brilliant inventions for busy families. Ever.

 
Ingredients

• 2 14 ounce cans of diced tomatoes
• 1 large chopped onion
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large carrots, chopped
• 3 large celery ribs, chopped
• 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth - I used low sodium
• 1 tablespoon basil
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 can kidney beans (optional), drained
• black pepper
• pasta, cooked and set aside
• pamesan cheese

Directions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil and add onion and garlic, cook until tender
2. Add remaining veggies except the tomatoes and beans (if using), heat until tender
3. Add tomatoes, broth, beans and veggies into the crockpot
4. Cook on low for 7-8 hours
5. Top with pasta and parmesan cheese, if desired!

What I love about this soup is that it's SO easy!  Perfect for a chilly Winter day!