Pasta E Fagioli

Ingredients


1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, undrained
2 teaspoons dry basil leaves
3−4 cups boiling water, divided usage
2 cups beef broth
1/3 cup dry red wine
12 ounces ditalini, elbow macaroni, or any short tubular pasta
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Chopped fresh basil leaves, optional


Place olive oil and garlic in a large saucepot (6 quart). Cook over
medium heat just until golden. Add tomato paste and cook 3−4 minutes
stirring occasionally.


Puree 1 can of beans in food processor or blender; add to saucepot with
remaining beans. Cook 2 minutes; stir in basil. Add 2 cups boiling water,
broth, wine, salt and pepper. Increase heat and bring to a boil, stirring
occasionally, about 5 minutes. Add pasta. Cook about 8 minutes or until al
dente, adding remaining hot water, if needed and stirring occasionally.


Serve hot topped with Parmesan and fresh basil, if desired.