Easy Italian Vegetable Soup

Submitted by Jessica Guinan

1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can condensed beef broth
1 package (8oz) sliced mushrooms
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1/3 c. dry red wine or beef broth
1 1/2 tbsp dried basil leaves (I find this is also too much & 3/4 tbsp is fine)
2 1/2 tsp sugar
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1c. shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Combine tomatoes, broth, mushrooms, onion, zucchini, bell pepper, wine, basil and sugar in slow cooker. Cover; cook on LOW for 8 hrs or HIGH for 4 hrs. Stir oil and salt into soup. Serve garnished with cheese, if desired. **I also make tiny pasta to go with this. Ether an orzo or ditalini or tubettini or something very small and serve the soup over it.