The Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a comforting dish that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. This hearty soup combines wholesome ingredients into a flavorful bowl, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it suitable for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Enjoy the rich blend of beans, pasta, and spices that sets this recipe apart from others.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and beans, this recipe offers a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer the stove, crockpot, or instant pot, this recipe adapts to your cooking style.
- Vegetarian Delight: With no meat involved, this soup is ideal for vegetarians and can easily be made vegan.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a rich taste that warms you from the inside out.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Pasta Fagioli Recipe, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking larger batches of soup while ensuring even heat distribution.
- Stirring spoon: A sturdy spoon helps combine ingredients thoroughly for an even flavor throughout the dish.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
For the Vegetables
- 1 cup quartered carrots
- 2 15 oz cans cooked cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
For the Flavor
- 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
For the Broth and Pasta
- 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
How to Make Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion, garlic, and carrots beforehand to make cooking faster.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Beans
Stir in the quartered carrots along with the rinsed cannellini beans. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Incorporate Liquids and Seasonings
Add the tomato sauce, bay leaf, dried basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, red pepper flakes, vegetable broth, and water. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed properly.
Step 5: Bring to a Boil
Increase heat until the mixture reaches a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
Step 6: Cook Pasta
After simmering, add dry ditalini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once pasta is cooked through, remove bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Enjoy your delightful Pasta Fagioli Recipe!
How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Serving your delicious Pasta Fagioli can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this hearty dish that will impress your family and friends.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked or toasted bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth of Pasta Fagioli. Choose a rustic sourdough or a baguette for added flavor.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the aroma of the soup.
Top with Cheese
- For those who enjoy cheese, sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top before serving. It adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Serve with a Salad
- A light salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette, complements the flavors of the Pasta Fagioli nicely.
Offer Lemon Wedges
- Including lemon wedges allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their soup, brightening the flavors and adding freshness.
Present in Individual Bowls
- Serving Pasta Fagioli in individual bowls creates a more intimate dining experience. Consider using colorful bowls for added visual appeal.
How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Recipe
To ensure your Pasta Fagioli turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
- Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid mushy pasta, cook it separately and add it to each bowl just before serving.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
- Experiment with Beans: While cannellini beans are traditional, feel free to try other beans like kidney or pinto for different textures and tastes.
- Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge overnight for full flavor development.
Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Complementing your Pasta Fagioli with side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is a classic pairing that everyone loves.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add brightness to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy and colorful addition that pairs wonderfully.
- Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta is light yet flavorful alongside Pasta Fagioli.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing and croutons offers a nice contrast in textures.
- Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice and herbs, stuffed peppers can be an exciting side that complements the main dish beautifully.
- Focaccia Bread: This soft Italian flatbread is excellent for mopping up leftover broth from your soup.
- Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickles makes for an exciting starter before enjoying your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pasta Fagioli can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the soaking: Not soaking the beans overnight can result in longer cooking times and a less creamy texture. Always soak dried beans before cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Cook ditalini separately and add it just before serving for the best texture.
- Ignoring seasonings: Underseasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust spices according to your preference for flavorful results.
- Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality vegetable broth can affect the soup’s overall taste. Opt for low-sodium, high-quality broth for a richer flavor.
- Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables can detract from the dish. Fresh produce enhances flavor and nutrition, so choose quality ingredients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to loosen the consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to serve Pasta Fagioli?
Pasta Fagioli is best served hot with fresh herbs on top and crusty bread on the side. This adds texture and enhances flavors.
Can I make this Pasta Fagioli Recipe vegan?
Yes! The recipe is already vegetarian, making it easy to enjoy as a vegan dish by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
How do I store leftover Pasta Fagioli?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta like elbow macaroni or small shells if desired.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta Fagioli Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Try it today for a hearty meal that warms both body and soul!
Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Indulge in the comforting embrace of this Pasta Fagioli Recipe, a delightful Italian soup that blends wholesome ingredients into a heartwarming bowl. This nourishing dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, offering a rich combination of beans, ditalini pasta, and aromatic spices. In just 35 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also healthy and vegetarian-friendly. Serve it with crusty bread or fresh herbs to elevate the experience, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
- 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
- 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
- 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
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in quartered carrots and rinsed cannellini beans until well combined.
- Add tomato sauce, vegetable broth, water, bay leaf, and dried herbs. Mix thoroughly.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add dry ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving and adjust seasonings as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
