Quick White Bean Soup with Bacon

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon (or 4 thick-cut), chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery ribs, sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cans (19 oz each) white kidney beans
• ¾ cup half and half
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan
• Fresh parsley or spinach for garnish (optional)