Classic Minestrone

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon garlic
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 rashers middle bacon, rind removed, chopped (optional)
• 2 celery stalks, trimmed, finely chopped
• 2 large carrot, peeled, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
• ¾ cup small dried pasta e.g. mini shells / macaroni / risoni
• 400g can of cannellini beans
• 2 small zucchini, chopped
• ½ cup frozen peas
• fresh basil leaves
• finely grated parmesan cheese (optional), to serve