Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. This hearty soup, rich in healthy carbs and protein, warms the soul and satisfies your hunger. Whether you are hosting a cozy gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe stands out with its vibrant ingredients and comfort food appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pot and simple steps, you’ll have this delicious soup ready in no time.
• Flavorful and Nutritious: Packed with beans, vegetables, and herbs, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup fits any meal.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe caters to plant-based diets without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
• Great for Meal Prep: You can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Creating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is easy with the right tools. Gather your kitchen essentials to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to sauté vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures safety while chopping ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a comfort food that offers healthy carbs and lots of flavor. 

Ingredients:
– 6 ounces ditalini pasta (- uncooked – 6 ounces by weight and 1 1/2 cups by measurement)
– 1 cup white onion (- diced)
– 2 cloves garlic (- chopped finely)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 15 ounces tomatoes (- diced and canned or fresh tomatoes to measure that amount)
– 8 ounces tomato sauce
– 4 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 1/2 cups carrots (- chopped small, about 2 carrots)
– 1/2 cup celery (- chopped)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 15 ounces cannellini beans (- canned and drained)
– 15 ounces kidney beans (- canned and drained)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black ground pepper

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by adding about three tablespoons of water to a large skillet. Sauté the diced onions for approximately ten minutes until they become translucent. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Tomatoes

To the same skillet, add the vegetable broth along with all tomato ingredients such as diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Then add in your chopped carrots, celery, dried oregano, dried basil, and cumin. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add in the uncooked ditalini pasta along with both types of beans—cannellini and kidney.

Step 4: Cook Until Al Dente

Reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil. Cook the soup for about six to eight minutes until the pasta reaches al dente texture.

Step 5: Season to Taste

After cooking, add salt and black pepper according to your taste preference. Stir well before tasting for seasoning adjustments.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup hot with crusty bread or breadsticks on the side for an extra treat!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with various accompaniments. Whether you’re enjoying it for a cozy dinner or serving guests, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping into the rich soup. A baguette or ciabatta works wonderfully to soak up the flavors.

Topped with Parmesan

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

With a Side Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the hearty soup and adds freshness to your meal.

As a Main Dish

• This soup is hearty enough to be served as a main course. Pair it with your favorite dessert for a complete meal experience.

In a Bread Bowl

• For an exciting twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It’s not only delicious but also adds a fun presentation element.

With Garlic Knots

• Serve alongside warm garlic knots for an extra indulgent touch. Their buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the savory soup.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Creating the perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture. Opt for ripe tomatoes and crisp celery for the best results.
• Adjust seasoning: Tasting as you cook allows you to adjust spices according to your preference, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
• Cook pasta al dente: Adding pasta at the right time prevents it from becoming mushy. Aim for slightly firm pasta that holds its shape.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer after adding all ingredients enhances the flavors, creating a more robust taste.
• Make it ahead of time: Preparing this soup in advance allows flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when reheated.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique flavor variations tailored to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty soup.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter adds crunch and flavor, perfect for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Baked peppers filled with rice and vegetables provide a colorful and nutritious addition.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness and complements the soup’s savory notes.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic makes for a light appetizer that balances the richness of the soup.
6. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from grated zucchini offer texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the warm soup.
7. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a vibrant side dish bursting with flavor.
8. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted red peppers provides variety and enhances your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: This can lead to mushy pasta in your soup. To avoid this, cook the pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue cooking in the soup after being added.

• Not Sautéing the Vegetables Properly: Skipping this step can result in raw-tasting vegetables. Make sure to sauté onions and garlic until they are fragrant and translucent for maximum flavor.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoned soup can be bland. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

• Using Low-Quality Broth: The broth is a key component of flavor. Opt for a good-quality vegetable broth to enhance the taste of your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

• Forgetting to Stir Frequently: This could lead to sticking or uneven cooking. Remember to stir your soup regularly, especially after adding pasta and beans.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup:

How To Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup Vegetarian?

You can easily make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.

Can I Use Different Pasta?

Yes! While ditalini is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape you prefer like macaroni or shells.

What Beans Can I Use in Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Cannellini beans and kidney beans are common choices, but you can also try black beans or chickpeas if desired.

How Long Does Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup Last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful comfort food that combines healthy carbs with rich flavors. Its versatility allows for customization based on your preferences—feel free to add more vegetables or switch up the beans. Try making this delicious recipe at home for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

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Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a warm and comforting dish that brings together a delightful medley of flavors and textures. This hearty soup is not only satisfying but also nutritious, making it the perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and cozy gatherings. With its base of tender ditalini pasta, vibrant vegetables, and protein-packed beans, this recipe delivers a wholesome meal in every bowl. Enjoy it as an appetizer or a main course, and pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for an unforgettable dining experience. Easy to prepare in just one pot, this Olive Garden-style soup will quickly become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 ounces ditalini pasta
• 1 cup diced white onion
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 15 ounces diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 1/2 cups chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 15 ounces canned cannellini beans (drained)
• 15 ounces canned kidney beans (drained)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, add three tablespoons of water and sauté the diced onions for about ten minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth along with the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir in the chopped carrots, celery, oregano, basil, and cumin.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat; then add the ditalini pasta along with both types of beans.
4. Reduce heat slightly and simmer for about six to eight minutes until the pasta is al dente.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg