elaine's easy pasta fagioli

Ingredients For elaine's easy pasta fagioli

• 1 c

  chopped onion
• 1 lg

  chopped carrot
• 1/4 c

  chopped celery
• 1 clove

  chopped garlic
• 1 - 14 oz can

  diced tomatoes
• 3/4 c

  salsa, chunky
• 1/2 tsp

  thyme, dried
• 1/2 tsp

  basil, dried
• 1/4 tsp

  chili flakes
• 1 box

  mushroom, vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 c

  any small pasta
• 1 can

  kidney beans (rinsed)
• to taste

  salt and pepper
• 1 c

  water, more as needed
• 2 Tbsp

  chopped bacon ( optional) - brown the bacon first and remove from pot and then proceed)