Hearty Pasta and Bean Soup

This hearty pasta and bean soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Made with simple ingredients like pasta, beans, vegetables, and savory spices, this soup is packed with flavor and will keep you warm and satisfied. It's easy to make and can be ready in just 30 minutes. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups cooked white beans
• 1 cup small pasta (such as macaroni or small shells)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, diced celery, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the vegetable broth, cooked white beans, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Add the small pasta to the soup and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve the pasta and bean soup hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
8. Enjoy!

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