Ingredients:
6 slices lean smoked bacon
diced
1 small onion
finely chopped
1 rib celery
finely chopped
1 medium carrot
peeled and grated
2 cloves garlic
peeled and crushed
1/8 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper
2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
2 1/2 cups drained canned white beans
6 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup macaroni or other small pasta shape
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
optional
Directions:
In a large deep skillet, saute bacon until some fat is rendered;
add onion, celery, carrot, garlic and red pepper to skillet and
saute until vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes. Stir in
tomatoes, cook and stir occasionally for 10 more minutes.
Stir in beans; add broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add
macaroni and continue cooking until pasta is tender, but still
firm, about 15 minutes. Serve immediately with Parmesan cheese
if desired; or cover, refrigerate and reheat gently to serving
temperature.