Minestrone

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 carrots halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise
• 1 red bell pepper (ribs and seeds removed) cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 8 ounces green beans stem ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch lengths
• 3 garlic cloves thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup couscous
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can (15.5 ounces) navy beans drained and rinsed
• Coarse salt
• Flat-leaf parsley leaves (optional)
• Shaved Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. 1
   In a 3-quart microwave-safe dish, place oil, carrots, bell pepper, green beans, and garlic; stir to coat. Cover and microwave on high for 5 minutes.
2. 2
   Add couscous, broth, tomato paste, navy beans, 1 cup water, and 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt. Cover; microwave on high until vegetables and couscous are tender, 5 minutes. If desired, stir in parsley, and garnish with cheese.