Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 2 large red or green bell peppers, 1-inch
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 c. water
  • 2 (14 1/2 oz. each) cans diced tomatoes in olive oil, garlic and spices and drained
  • 1 1/2 c. shredded Mozzarella cheese
  • 1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste
  • 1 c. sliced mushrooms
  • 1 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning, crumbled
  • 1 tsp. fennel seed
  • 1 (15 or 16 oz.) can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 (15 or 16 oz.) can cannellini beans, drained
  • 6 slices French bread

Method

  • Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Cook onion, bell peppers and garlic in oil, until onion is tender.
  • Stir in water, diced tomatoes and tomato paste until blended.
  • Stir in remaining ingredients except bread and cheese.
  • Heat to boiling; reduce heat.
  • Cover and simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Just before serving, heat oven to 425°.
  • Place bread on ungreased cookie sheet.
  • Toast bread in oven about 6 minutes, turning once, until brown.
  • Set oven control to broil.
  • Pour hot soup into 6 ovenproof soup bowls or casseroles.
  • Top each with 1 slice toast. Sprinkle with cheese.
  • Broil soup with tops 3 to 4 inches from heat for 1 to 2 minutes or until cheese is melted.
  • Makes 6 servings.