Bacon And Potato Soup

Directions

1. Cook bacon till crisp in 3-qt saucepan, remove and drain well on paper towels. Throw away bacon grease and wipe pan thoroughly with paper towel.
2. meanwhile, prepare vegetables. Add in extra virgin olive oil to saucepan and add in onion, carrot, and celery as they are cut up. Saute/fry till onion is soft but not brown, about 3-4 min. Stir in chicken broth, potatoes, and pepper; bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, covered, till potatoes are tender, about 10-15 min. Stir in cheese, heating just till melted-don't boil. Chop bacon and add in to soup. Adjust seasoning to taste by adding salt, if you like. Serve at once.