RICE SOUP WITH VEGETABLES

2 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 med stalks of celery, chopped
1 med onion, chopped
1med carrot, chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
3/4 cup uncooked rice
2 med. tomatoes, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup water
salt./pepper to taste

Heat oil in large kettle over medium/low heat. Add garlic, celery, onion, carrot and basil to oil. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until veggies are crisp/tender. Stir in rice and tomatoes. Increase heat to medium and cook uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in remaining ingredients. Heat to boiling; reduce heat to medium/low. Cover & simmer about 20 minutes or until rice is tender. Can top with grated parmesan or Romano cheese.