Upstate Minestrone Soup

Cut the sausage into 1 inch thick slices (you can use bulk sausage if desired) and then cut in half again. I used Johnsonville and it had great flavor After sausage is cooked drain off the grease as best you can and add the following and let cook for 5 minutes: onion, carrots, garlic and basil Add zucchini, tomatoes, beef broth and shredded cabbage, salt and pepper The whole mixture will look like there is not enough liquid, but the cabbage will cook down and there will be plenty of liquid. Bring to a boil, then lower temperature and simmer covered for about an hour. Add the can of beans (undrained) and cook for an additional 20 minutes