Bean, Ham & Pasta Soup

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the beans and enough water to cover by 2 inches.

Let stand overnight; drain well.

In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.

Add the ham, onion, and celery and cook, stirring often until lightly browned, about 6 minutes.

Add the garlic and cook, stirring often, for 1 minute.

Add the chicken broth, stirr ing to scrape up the browned bits on the bottom of the skillet.

Transfer to a 3½-quart slow cooker.

Add the drained beans, water, and tomato paste.

Cover and slow cook until the beans are tender, 7 to 8 hours on Low or 4 to 5 hours on High.

Stir in the pasta, salt, and pepper.

Turn heat to high and cook until pasta is tender, about 30 to 60 minutes.

Using a large spoon, crush enough of the beans against the sides of the slow co oker to reach the consistency you like.

Serve immediately.