Garden Minestrone Soup

from Kathy Fenton

8 C. water
1 lrg. onion, chopped
1 1/4 C. chopped carrots
1 C. chopped celery
2 C. chopped cabbage
1 can green beans
1 C. canned tomatoes, diced
1 C. diced zucchini
1 C. chopped potatoes
2 1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. dried basil leaves
1 tsp. dried parsley leaves
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 bay leaves

In large kettle, bring water to a boil, Add above ingredients. Simmer 45 minutes. In small saucepan, boil 1 cup macaroni the minimum fume suggested on package. Add to soup mixture with 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar and 1 cup beef broth. Simmer an additional 15 minutes. Serve hot. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.