Cover washed beans with water; soak overnight.

In a small skillet, cook oil, bacon, garlic and onion over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain beans and put into a large pot; add bacon-onion mixture, carrots, celery, tomatoes and juice, basil, parsley, potatoes, zucchini, green beans, cabbage and broth; cover and simmer 4 hours. Add the macaroni (or rice) about 1 hour before serving

Before serving, add pepper and salt then top with Parmesan cheese.

Serve with a good Italian or garlic bread.

OPTIONS:

Spinach or Swiss chard can be substituted for cabbage.

Canned beans can be substituted for dried or fresh beans.

Add chunks of browned Italian sausage for a more robust version

Drop the bacon and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version