Easy Pasta Fagioli

Typical Italian hearty winter fare done easy! Easy Pasta Fagioli is a perfect dish for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or meal prep. This comforting soup combines rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it a standout choice for various occasions. With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll impress your guests while enjoying a delicious bowl of warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills and kitchen tools, making it perfect for anyone.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with beans and pasta, this soup provides a satisfying meal that keeps you full.
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Easy Pasta Fagioli tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories yet high in flavor, this dish is a fantastic choice for health-conscious eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather the essential tools that will help you prepare Easy Pasta Fagioli smoothly. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Pot for boiling pasta

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup together without crowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a convenient space to chop vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts on vegetables, making prep work quicker and easier.

Ingredients

To make a delicious pot of Easy Pasta Fagioli, gather these ingredients:

Vegetables

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 thin slices onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic, chopped

Broth and Sauce

• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 (14-ounce) cans chicken broth
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Herbs & Beans

• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves
• 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

Pasta

• 3 cups ditalini pasta

How to Make Easy Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in chopped garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base

1. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth; stir well to combine.
2. Season with freshly ground black pepper, dried parsley, and basil leaves.
3. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes to develop flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. In another pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Add ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8 minutes) until al dente; then drain.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the drained cannellini beans to the simmering sauce mixture; let simmer for an additional few minutes.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, stir it into the sauce and bean mixture until well combined.

Now you have a warm bowl of Easy Pasta Fagioli ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting dish that warms the soul. It’s perfect for cold nights and can be served in various delicious ways.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread adds a delightful texture and helps soak up the flavorful broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh burst of flavor.

Add a Grating of Cheese

• For those who enjoy dairy, consider adding a sprinkle of Romano or Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a savory richness to the dish.

With a Side Salad

• Serve with a light side salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar. The crispness of the salad complements the hearty soup perfectly.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli

To ensure your Easy Pasta Fagioli turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor. Fresh produce enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the ditalini pasta until al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. Adding more black pepper or herbs can elevate the flavors.
• Let It Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer if possible. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld together.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli

Pairing Easy Pasta Fagioli with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that provides a garlicky crunch, perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, creating a well-rounded meal.
3. Caesar Salad: A simple Caesar salad offers crisp romaine and creamy dressing, balancing out the heartiness of the soup.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for an elegant appetizer.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with grains and veggies for a filling side that complements the flavors in your soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, and pepperoncini provides diverse flavors that pair well with pasta fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Pasta Fagioli can be delightful, but avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish is perfect every time.

• Skipping the sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables may lead to a lack of flavor. Always start by cooking your carrots, celery, and onions until soft for a rich base.
• Overcooking pasta: Cooking ditalini pasta too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente, usually about 8 minutes, for the best texture in your soup.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season at each step can result in bland soup. Season with black pepper, parsley, and basil as you go for layered flavors.
• Using canned beans directly: Not rinsing canned cannellini beans can add excess sodium. Always drain and rinse them before adding to your dish.
• Not letting it simmer: Rushing through the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 20 minutes for a hearty taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat and stir until heated completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with ditalini pasta, beans, and vegetables simmered in chicken broth.

How do I customize Easy Pasta Fagioli?

You can customize this recipe by adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini or using different types of beans.

Is Easy Pasta Fagioli healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with fiber-rich beans and nutritious vegetables, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Can I make Easy Pasta Fagioli vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any cheese toppings for a vegan version.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pasta Fagioli recipe is not only simple but also versatile. You can tweak it with various veggies or herbs based on your preference. It’s perfect served alone or alongside crusty bread. Enjoy this comforting dish that warms both body and soul!

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Easy Pasta Fagioli

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a delightful Italian soup that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. This hearty dish features tender ditalini pasta, creamy cannellini beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. With rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, Easy Pasta Fagioli is sure to impress your guests while providing a satisfying meal that warms the soul.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 thin slices onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic, chopped
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 (14-ounce) cans chicken broth
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves
• 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 cups ditalini pasta

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté diced carrots, celery, and onion until soft. Stir in chopped garlic and sauté briefly.
2. Add tomato sauce and chicken broth to the saucepan; season with black pepper, parsley, and basil. Simmer for about 20 minutes.
3. In another pot, boil salted water and cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente; then drain.
4. Add drained cannellini beans to the simmering soup; let simmer for an additional few minutes. Stir in cooked pasta until well combined.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg