Pasta E. Fagioli

(Pasta and Beans)

Recipe By :Weight Watchers (with my revisions-LizBeth)

3 Points* Per Serving

1 pound extra lean ground beef

1 1/2 cups dry pasta

3 cups frozen mixed vegetables -- 1 package

37 1/2 ounces Kidney Beans -- 27oz + 15.25oz cans

29 ounces 100% Fat-Free Chicken Broth -- 2-14.5 oz cans

42 1/2 ounces canned tomatoes -- Italian Seasoned

2 cups water

1. Brown Lean Beef, to desired doneness. Drain off any fat (yes, there even is some visible on the 4% Extra-Lean Variety) 2. Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain (do not rinse) 3. While Pasta is cooking, drain and rinse the Kidney Beans. 4. In a stock pot, place all incredients in a stock pot (I used the same pot I prepared my Pasta in) 5. Return to Boil 6. Simmer for 10 minutes. If necessary (I didn't have to), add extra water to make sure pasta and other ingredients remain covered.

NOTE: I have to tell you this. My six-year old HATES with a passion, vegetables, or anything prepared with vegetables. At least, before we tried out this dish. He loved it, and even asked for seconds!!

* Points calculated using the labels from the following brands of food: Moran's 4% Ground Beef Sunny Select Salad Pasta S&W Kidney Beans Swanson Natural Goodness 100% Fat-Free Chicken Broth S&W Premium Peeled Tomaotes (Frozen Vegetables labels were compared, with no differnces, but I did take in the calories and other nutritional information when calculating the Points)

Serving Size : 15

Per serving: 384 Calories (kcal); 6g Total Fat; (14% calories from fat); 26g Protein; 59g Carbohydrate; 21mg Cholesterol; 175mg Sodium Food Exchanges: 3 1/2 Grain(Starch); 2 Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates

NOTES : Makes 15 one-cup servings 185.83 Calories; 2.53g Fat, 4.8g Fiber

This Italina-inspired, meal-in-a-pot is rich in fiber filled ingredients, like beans and vegetables. It's a tasty, vitamin-packed meal that cooks in no time, especially if you use leftover pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese (check-out the Fat-Free variety) and serve with a slice of bread and a salad.