Hearty Minestrone Soup

Prep :  25 minutes     Cook :   30 minutes    Makes 9 servings

1           pound bulk Italian sausage
2           cups  slice celery
1           cup chopped onion
6           cups chopped zucchini
1           can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes , undrained
1-1/2     cups chopped green peppers
1-1/2      teaspoons Italian seasoning
1-1/2      teaspoon salt
1           teaspoon dried oregano
1           teaspoon sugar
1/2        teaspoon dried basil
1/4        teaspoon garlic powder

In a large saucepan , cook the sausage  over medium heat  until no longer pink . Using a slotted spoon , remove to paper towel to drain , reserving  1 tablespoon of dripping . Saute celery  and onion in drippings for 5 minutes .  Add sausage  and remaining  ingredients  ; bring to a boil . Reduce heat ; cover  and simmer  for 20 to 30 minutes  or until vegetables  are tender .

Packed with sausage and vegetables  , this soup is not only nutritious , it's also a great way  to use up your  garden bounty .