Slow Cooker Vegetarian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

INGREDIENTS

2 tbsp

olive oil

large onion, chopped

1 cup

sliced celery

1/2 cup

chopped carrots

1 tbsp

minced garlic

tsp. Italian Herb Blend (Use any brand of Italian seasoning that you have.)

tsp. Spike Seasoning (Or substitute any type of all-purpose seasoning blend that you like.)

1/2 tsp

ground fennel (probably optional, but it adds a lot of flavor.)

1/2 tsp

red pepper flakes

2 cans

red beans, rinsed and drained

3 cans

vegetable broth (or use homemade vegetable stock, which would be fantastic in this)

8 oz

can tomato sauce

salt and fresh ground black pepper

several pieces Parmesan rind (optional, but does add wonderful flavor to the soup)

1/2

cup 100% Whole Wheat Orzo Pasta (could substitute any type of small whole wheat pasta, or use brown rice for gluten-free variation)

2 tbsp

good quality balsamic vinegar

freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving

chopped fresh parsley for serving