Hearty Sausage Soup a la Kathleen

Served to rave reviews at my Portland Book Group, I thank Kathleen for this hearty, tasty, easy recipe! Serves 5-6

1 lb. chicken sausage (some spicy, some mild, depending on your taste, or just sprinkle in a little red pepper flakes)
1 medium onion diced
2 garlic cloves minced
2 large carrots diced
1 large red potato diced
2 tsp. (I use more) Italian seasoning
2 cans chicken stock (14 oz ea)
1 can white beans (undrained 14 oz) - garbanzo and/or cannallini beans

Saute onions and garlic with sausage until browned. Add carrots, potatoes, and seasonings and cook 3 minutes - or more. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until it is done to your liking. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with grated Romano cheese and fresh cilantro.