Step 1

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Step 2

Heat the oil in a soup pot. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and sauté over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until all are golden.

Step 3

Add the beans, broth, tomatoes, bay leaves, and seasoning blend. Bring to gentle boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer gently for 10 minutes.

Step 4

Remove from the heat and allow the soup to stand for an hour or so to develop flavor.

Step 5

Just before serving, cook the pasta until al dente in a separate saucepan. Rinse briefly under cool water until it stops steaming. Stir into the soup along with the peas or zucchini.

Step 6

Return the soup to a gentle boil. If the soup is too dense, add another cup or two of water or broth. Stir in the parsley and/or oregano. Remove the bay leaves, season with salt and pepper, and serve.