19 Bean Soup

Also known as Pasta E Fagioli. Hearty and delicious:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 cups onions, chopped
• 1.5 cups carrots, chopped
• 1/5 cups celery, chopped
• 3 tbsp garlic (minced)
• 3 cups water
• 3 cans beef broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• about 14oz various beans, barley, dried peas, veggies, etc. (I just use the 19-variety bag of dried beans from the grocery store)
• bowtie pasta (your call how much you use)
• grated parmesan cheese

In a large stock pan, heat oil and saute vegetables and garlic.

Add water, broth, beans, tomatoes and spices. Add any herbs now (I think I used parsley, oregano and a bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

Then just reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the beans are tender, stirring frequently.

Add pasta, and simmer covered, until cooked through.

Salt & pepper to taste & top with grated parmesan cheese.

**I also added barley & 5oz of proscuitto**