I Love a GREAT Deal!

Nate & I had this cast iron pot on our wedding registry but never got it.  I never felt like using our gift cards on it because I didn't think it was worth $99.99, but I still REALLY wanted it.  I love making soup and thought it would be great for that.  Well this week I was able to put a couple deals/coupons (I love my coupons!) together and got it for $30!!  So I thought I would share two of my favorite soup recipes with you to celebrate.

Taco Soup
1 lb ground beef, 1 medium onion chopped, 3 cans beans (I like black, pinto and kidney), 2 cans diced tomatoes w/ green chilies, 2 c. water, 1 1/2 c. corn (canned, fresh or frozen), 1 pkt ranch dressing mix, 1 pkt taco seasoning.
~ In in a large kettle/dutch oven (like my new pretty one!) saute onions until soft.  Add ground beef until brown.  Drain.  Add the rest of the ingredients and bring to a boil.  Reduce heat, cover & simmer 20-30 mins.  (Don't forget to season w/ salt & pepper along the way).   Enjoy w/ corn bread.  For more heat toss in a spicy pepper or two.  :)

Zupa Tuscana  (like a certain famous restaurant)
6 slices bacon, 1 Tbl EVOO, 3/4 c. chopped onion, 1 lb Italian sausage, 2 med potatoes (I like red) cut up into bite size pieces,  2 cloves garlic, 2 c kale, 1 qrt chicken stock, 1/3 c. heavy cream.  Oregano and basil to taste
~ Cook bacon, crumble & set aside.  In a large kettle/dutch oven (again.. like the pretty one above) Saute onions in EVOO until clear.  Add sausage and cook until no longer pink (if you like a little heat add some red pepper flakes).  Add chicken stock and potatoes.  Cook 15 mins or until potatoes are done.  Add cream, bacon, kale, basil & oregano.  Simmer 5 mins and serve.  (Don't forget to season w/ salt & pepper along the way).   Enjoy w/ rosemary bread sticks.