Zucchini Soup

1 T. olive oil
steak, sliced into small, thin pieces
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
2 1/2 lb. Red, New, or Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into cubes
3 c. water
2 c. vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 t. pepper
1 c. warm water
4-6 sun-dried tomatoes, not oil packed
3 zucchini, grated
2-3 green onions, sliced
1 (5oz) can evaporated skim milk
1 t. basil

In large saucepan, over high heat, bring the potatoes, water, broth, and pepper to a boil. Recude heat to slow, cover and simmer, stirring occationally, until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

In the meantime, saute steak in olive oil until it begins to turn brown. Add garlic and mushrooms. Continue cooking until meat is browned and veggies are soft.

Pour the warm water into a small bowl. Add tomatoes. Let stand until tomatoes are soft, about 5 minutes. Drain, then chop the tomatoes finely.

Remove potatoes from heat. Using a slotted spoon, transfer about half of the potatoes to another bowl. Mash until almost smooth. Return to saucepan. Add zucchini, green onions, and mushroom mixture and stir to blend.

Return saucepan to medium heat, cover and simmer, stirring once or twice, until zucchini is tender and wilted, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in evaporated milk, basil & chopped tomatoes. Serve. --Keri