Pasta Fagioli

Prep time: 15 mins

Cook time: 30 mins

Serves: 5

INGREDIENTS:

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, chopped (or more)

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 carrot, finely chopped

15oz can cannellini beans

15oz can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

1 large bay leaf

1 tbsp basil

1 tbsp parsley

1 tsp oregano

2 (14 oz each) cans fat free chicken broth

2 cups water

1-1/2 cups (6 oz) dry Ditalini pasta or other small pasta

Grated Parmigiano or Romano (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

In a deep pot, saute onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat.  Add the beans, tomato sauce, celery, carrots, chicken broth, baisl, bay leaf, parsley, oregano, salt and pepper.  Add 2 cups of water and bring to a slow boil.  Let simmer for 20 minutes stirring occasionally.  Add pasta and cook uncovered until pasta is al dente, according to pasta directions.

Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated cheese.