lentil & pasta soup, italian style

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 - carrot, peeled and diced small
• 1 - celery rib, diced small
• 1 small onion, peeled and chopped small
• 2 large cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 cups dried green or brown lentils
• 8 cups vegetable broth
• - salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups small pasta, cooked (such as orzo, ditalini, elbow, or shells)
• 1/4 cup romano cheese, shredded or grated