The Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a delightful and hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This soup is not only delicious but also healthy and vegetarian, making it perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or meal prep for the week ahead. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, this recipe stands out from the rest, proving that you don’t need to visit a restaurant to enjoy an authentic pasta fagioli.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup is low in calories but high in nutrients.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether served as a main course or a starter, it’s great for any occasion.
- Flavorful: The combination of herbs and spices creates a rich taste that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant.
- Multiple Cooking Methods: This recipe can be made on the stove, in a crockpot, or using an instant pot for ultimate convenience.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering your soup evenly without burning.
- Sharp knife: Ensures quick chopping of vegetables for efficient prep time.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 cup quartered carrots
- 2 15 oz cans cooked cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 dried bay leaf
Herbs & Spices
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Broth & Pasta
- 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
How to Make Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and quartered carrots; cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Add the rinsed cannellini beans, tomato sauce, bay leaf, herbs, spices, vegetable broth, and water to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and add the dry ditalini pasta.
- Let it simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes until pasta is tender.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and enjoy your delicious Pasta Fagioli!
This simple yet flavorful Pasta Fagioli Recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen!
How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pasta Fagioli is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your bowl of this delicious soup.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped herbs for a burst of flavor.
With Grated Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds richness and a savory touch.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough or Italian Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the soup.
As an Appetizer
- Small Portions: Serve in small bowls as an appetizer before the main course at dinner parties.
With Salad
- Mixed Green Salad: Pair with a light salad for a refreshing side that complements the hearty soup.
With Olive Oil Drizzle
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances the flavors and adds a lovely finish.
How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Recipe
To make your Pasta Fagioli truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance flavor.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Add pasta towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for perfect seasoning.
Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking. This helps flavors meld beautifully.
Try Different Beans: Experiment with other types of beans like kidney beans or pinto beans for variation.
Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Pasta Fagioli can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options.
Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for dipping into the soup.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complement the flavors beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
Cheesy Breadsticks: Warm, cheesy breadsticks are great for sopping up every drop of soup.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing offers a nice crunch against the soup’s softness.
Stuffed Peppers: These can be made ahead of time and provide a filling side option alongside your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Pasta Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using the wrong beans: Many recipes call for cannellini beans, but you can also use other white beans. Just ensure they are cooked properly for the best texture.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy in the soup. Add it toward the end of cooking to maintain firmness.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your soup well with herbs and spices. Taste as you go and adjust to your preference.
- Not letting it rest: Allowing your Pasta Fagioli to sit after cooking enhances the flavors. Letting it rest for a few minutes before serving can make a big difference.
- Ignoring texture: For a heartier soup, consider adding chopped vegetables like zucchini or spinach. They not only add nutrition but also improve the overall texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Lasts up to 3 months in the freezer for best quality.
Reheating Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring regularly until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this delicious Pasta Fagioli Recipe:
Can I make a vegan Pasta Fagioli Recipe?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth and ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
What type of pasta should I use in my Pasta Fagioli Recipe?
Ditalini is traditional, but you can use any small pasta shape like elbows or shells if preferred.
How do I thicken my Pasta Fagioli?
To thicken your soup, you can mash some of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry. Another option is to let it simmer longer.
Can I add meat to my Pasta Fagioli Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground beef or sausage works well if you prefer a meatier version. Brown it first before adding other ingredients.
How long does this soup keep?
When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 5 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta Fagioli Recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try!
Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pasta Fagioli is a comforting Italian soup that combines hearty beans, tender vegetables, and flavorful herbs. This delightful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, providing a nutritious meal that warms the soul. With its rich taste and wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy an authentic restaurant-quality pasta fagioli right at home. Whether you’re seeking a vegetarian option or a comforting bowl of soup to share with loved ones, this easy recipe fits the bill.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 cup quartered carrots
- 2 15 oz cans cooked cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 dried bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and quartered carrots; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add rinsed cannellini beans, tomato sauce, bay leaf, herbs, vegetable broth, and water; bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat and add dry ditalini pasta; simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving and ladle into bowls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
