Bean soups are wonderfully satisfying and tasty – this one can also be cooked in a crock-pot, if preferred.

Serves 6

2 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, finely diced

1 large carrot, peeled and finely diced

2 sticks celery, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, crushed

400g can crushed tomatoes

4 cups vegetable or chicken stock

1/2 cup green lentils

1 cup macaroni or other small pasta shapes

400g can white cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

400g can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained

2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 Heat oil in a large saucepan, add onion, carrot and celery; cook over a low heat for 10 minutes until soft but not browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

2 Add tomatoes, stock and lentils. Bring to the boil then simmer for 20 minutes.

3 Add pasta and beans and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until pasta is tender. Add oregano and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Chef’s trick: This soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for reheating throughout the week. You will find the flavours develop and improve with time.