Elbows and Beans

Mama mia! Here's an unbeatable combo that's practically a national food staple in Italy. It's sure to be a hit in your neighborhood, too!

Serves: 3

Cooking Time: 30 min

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive or vegetable oil
• 6 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped
• 1 (14 ½-ounce) can whole tomatoes, undrained, broken up
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, undrained
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 (8-ounce) package elbow macaroni
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat; add garlic, and saute until golden. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly to prevent splattering; add tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to medium and cook 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
    
2. Add cannellini beans and parsley, and continue cooking for 10 more minutes, stirring frequently.
    
3. Meanwhile, cook and drain macaroni according to package directions then add to bean mixture along with Parmesan cheese. Stir until thoroughly mixed then serve immediately.