Beans With Small Shell Pasta

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This recipe originally called for adzuki beans, but as those are extremely hard to find state-side, i use whatever type of beans i have on hand. I like garbanzos and cannellini best, but kidneys and pintos work well also. Adjust the pepper flakes to your personal taste. I usually use around 3/4 tsp. Depending on how i am feeling while cooking. If you don't have asiago cheese on hand, parmesan and mozzarella will work just as well. This can also be made vegan by omitting the cheese or substituting soy cheese. This can be used as a main dish for four or a side dish for eight.

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Steps

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Cook pasta according to package directions , omitting salt and oil.

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Drain and set aside.

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Meanwhile , in a medium saucepan , heat olive oil over medium heat.

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Add bell pepper and garlic.

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Cook , stirring occasionally , until vegetables are soft , 3 to 5 minutes.

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Add tomatoes and hot pepper flakes.

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Bring to a boil over high heat.

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Reduce heat and simmer , uncovered , 10 minutes.

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Stir in beans , basil , and parsley.

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Cook until beans are heated through , about 2 minutes , stirring occasionally.

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Stir in cooked pasta and heat through.

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Spoon into serving bowls and top each with asiago cheese.

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Ingredients

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small shell pasta, olive oil, green bell pepper, garlic, diced tomatoes, crushed red pepper flakes, garbanzo beans, dried basil, parsley flakes, asiago cheese