1 large onion, chopped
1 large carrot, chopped
1 celery rib, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
3/4 cup uncooked small pasta shells
2 teaspoons sugar
1-1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 cans (15 ounces each) white kidney or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese