In a Pyrex bowl or measuring cup, place frozen vegetables in 1-2 tablespoons water. Microwave on high until thawed (about 3-4 minutes). Add roughly broken ramen noodles. Cover with water or broth. Add Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, rosemary, parsley or your favorite mixture).

Note: Discard flavoring packet.

Process on high for about 4 minutes, stopping to stir from center once or twice.

Add V-8 juice to hot ramen. Stir well. Add butter or olive oil.

Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Have no frozen mixed vegetables? Dice 1 large carrot into 1/8-inch cubes and microwave until tender (about 4 minutes) before adding ramen.

Kick it up and variations: add a clove of minced garlic and a chopped white pearl onion to the cooking vegetables. Add leftover chopped beef or chicken. Add a tablespoon of Quaker quick-cooking barley at the start of cooking and microwave until tender.

Servings: 2