Pasta E Fagioli (Bean And Pasta Soup) Recipe

• 1 c. Dry cannellini or possibly Great Northern beans soaked
• 2 Tbsp. Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 x Onion chopped
• 1 x Celery stalk chopped
• 1 x Carrot chopped
• 1/2 lb Smoked ham diced
• 2 x Garlic cloves chopped
• 1 can Crushed tomatoes - (28 ounce) including liquid
• 4 c. Beef stock
• 1 Tbsp. Chopped fresh thyme
•     (or possibly 1 tspn dry thyme)
• 1 x Bay leaf
•     Freshly-grnd black pepper to taste
•     Rind from a piece of Parmesan cheese
• 2/3 c. Dry small pasta
•     (such as shells or possibly elbows)
•     Chopped fresh basil for garnish
•     Freshly-grated Parmesan for garnish

Directions