Hearty Minestrone Soup

Ingredients

• 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
• 2 cups sliced celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 6 cups chopped zucchini
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1-1/2 cups chopped green pepper
• 1-1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, cook the sausage until no longer pink. Remove with a slotted spoon to paper towel to drain, reserving 1 tablespoon of drippings. Saute celery and onion in drippings for 5 minutes. Add sausage and remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.