Sweet Sausage Minestrone

This is a favorite recipe we have been making since we lived in Houston.

Sweet Sausage Minestrone
1 lg. onion chopped
1 T. olive oil
1 red pepper, diced
1 green pepper, diced
1 crushed garlic clove
1 13 oz. can beef broth
3 c. water
1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
2 c. coarsely chopped cabbage
6 sweet Italian sausages (about 1 lb.)
1 T. basil
1 T. oregano
1 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
1 15 oz. can cannellini beans or kidney beans
1/2 c. sliced olives
1 8 1/2 oz. can artichokes (opt)
1 lb fresh tortellini
parmesan cheese

Saute the onions in the oil until translucent. Add the peppers and garlic and saute for 5 minutes. Add the broth, water, tomatoes, cabbage, sausages (whole) and seasonings. Bring to a boil then cook over med-low heat for 20 minutes. Remove the sausages and cut into 1/2 in. slices then return them to the pot. Add the beans, olives, artichokes and cook for 5 minutes. Add the tortellini and cook until al dente. Garnish with cheese. Serves 8-10.