Navy Bean Soup

1 head garlic, minced

3 celery stalks, diced

1 green pepper, diced

1 medium onion, diced

1 tablespoon of olive oil (increase to 2 tablespoons if not using butter or margarine) Add enough oil to saute the vegetables.

1 tablespoon of butter or margarine (optional)

(You will prepare the above ingredients first.)

Chuck ham - 1/2 cup chopped

Chicken broth - 6 cans

White beans - 1 can (15 ounces) or more, depending on the amount of beans you prefer in your soup.

1 tablespoon Basil

Black Pepper to taste

Salt to taste

Elbow Macaroni - 1 cup dry macaroni. Other macaroni can be used.

Grated cheese for topping

* Saute garlic, celery, green pepper, and onion ingredients with olive oil. Note: If you do use butter, it can burn if not watched. Butter/Margarine are optional.

* Add and cook all ingredients in a saucepan. Heat through until macaroni is done.

* Serve and add grated cheese

* Serves 3-5