Melting Pot Minestrone

Directions

1. 1
   In a 3 to 4-quart pot, combine onion, red pepper, carrot and sausage.
2. 2
   If sausage is not used, add 1 teaspoon each oil and minced garlic with the vegetables.
3. 3
   Cook over medium-high heat 8 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly browned.
4. 4
   Stir in broth and water, heat to a boil.
5. 5
   Add pasta, cook 8 minutes or until almost tender. Rinse beans and add to broth mixture.
6. 6
   Add tomatoes and zucchini.
7. 7
   Cover and simmer 5 minutes.
8. 8
   Zucchini should be tender.
9. 9
   Arrange bread slices on broiler pan; toast 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden.
10. 10
    Sprinkle 1 1/2 tablespoons cheese on each slice.
11. 11
    Heat 1 to 2 minutes more until melted.
12. 12
    Ladle soup into bowls.
13. 13
    Sprinkle with remaining cheese and top with a bread slice.
14. 14
    Serves 6.
15. 15
    Salt and pepper to taste.