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
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Serve hot topped with Parmesan and fresh basil, if desired. Pasta E Fagioli 20