Italian Sausage and Bell Pepper Soup with Rice

1. In a large pot, brown ground sausage on medium-high heat. Stir and cook until browned then drain grease if necessary.
2. Reduce heat to medium and add bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Cook, stirring intermittently, until onions and peppers have softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, Italian herb blend, red pepper flakes and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Turn heat to low, cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove bay leaf. Serve with rice and shredded Parmesan.

Adapted from Skinnytaste.com.