Friendship Soup

This one is from Kelly Fite: Emily had a play date at their house and ate two bowls!! I had to get the recipe. Thanks Kelly!!

Friendship Soup:

Friendship Soup

1 1/2 cups of a combination of lentils, barley, split peas, black eyed peas, red beans or whatever kind of beans you want
1 cup of pasta (we have used alphabet, macaroni, rotini, etc..)
2 beef bouillon cubes
1 t dried Italian seasoning (I always use more)
1 bay leaf
1 lb ground beef
pepper
garlic
1 14oz can diced tomatoes
1 15oz can tomato sauce (sometimes I just use a large can 28oz of tomato sauce instead of tomatoes)
3 quarts water

In large pot over medium heat, brown beef with pepper and garlic. Drain fat. Stir in all remaining ingredients except for pasta. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45 mins. Stir in pasta, cover, and simmer additional 15 mins or until beans are tender. Remove bay leaf and serve. Enjoy