Pasta Fagioli Recipe: Hearty Italian Comfort

Classic Pasta Fagioli is a beloved dish that embodies hearty Italian comfort. This Pasta Fagioli Recipe is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or weeknight meals. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it brings warmth to any occasion. The combination of beans and pasta makes this dish not only filling but also nutritious. Enjoy its versatility as it pairs well with various sides, making it a fantastic choice for diverse palates.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with beans and pasta, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
• Nutritious Ingredients: It features wholesome vegetables and legumes, making it a healthy option for your family.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish in under an hour.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: Customize the spices and add-ins to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this soup fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. With just a few kitchen staples, you can create this delicious Pasta Fagioli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for evenly cooking all ingredients while allowing enough space for simmering.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even cooking of vegetables and pasta.
• Measuring cups: Help ensure accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.
• Measuring spoons: Essential for precise seasoning that enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

Ingredients

Classic Pasta Fagioli with hearty, savory flavor.

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Beans & Tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz cannellini beans, drained)
• 1 can (15 oz kidney beans, drained)
• 1 can (28 oz crushed tomatoes)

Broth & Seasonings

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Pasta & Garnish

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• Optional: Fresh parsley (Parmesan)
• Suggested Pairings: Red apple vinegar (bread)

How to Make Pasta Fagioli Recipe: Hearty Italian Comfort

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
– Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
– Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Beans and Tomatoes

Incorporate the following ingredients into the pot:
– Cannellini beans
– Kidney beans
– Crushed tomatoes
– Chicken or vegetable broth
– Water
– Dried oregano
– Dried basil
– Red pepper flakes (if using)
– Kosher salt
– Black pepper

Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Once simmering:
– Add ditalini pasta to the soup.
– Simmer for about 8–10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt or spices based on your preference.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the hot soup into white ceramic bowls. Top with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve alongside bread dipped in red apple vinegar for an extra touch!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Recipe: Hearty Italian Comfort

Serving Pasta Fagioli is a delightful experience that enhances its savory flavors and comforting qualities. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this hearty Italian soup.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Slice a fresh baguette and serve it warm for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that complements the dish.

Add Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate cheese over each bowl for added richness.

Serve with Vinegar

• Red Apple Vinegar: Drizzle a splash of red apple vinegar over the soup to enhance its tanginess.

Enjoy with Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty pasta fagioli beautifully.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Recipe: Hearty Italian Comfort

Perfecting your Pasta Fagioli can elevate this dish from good to great. Consider these tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Bold flavors: Use low-sodium broth for more control over seasoning while ensuring rich flavor.
• Fresh herbs: Opt for fresh oregano and basil when available for an aromatic boost.
• Bean variety: Experiment with different beans, such as black beans, for unique textures and flavors.
• Pasta choice: Use ditalini or any small pasta shape that holds up well in soups.
• Simmer time: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors; just be mindful of the pasta’s doneness.
• Taste and adjust: Always taste before serving; adjust seasonings based on preference.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Recipe: Hearty Italian Comfort

Complementing your Pasta Fagioli with side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic oil pair perfectly with the soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing add crunch and flavor contrast.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer refreshing bites.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies make a hearty side option.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses creates a delightful appetizer spread.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs provide a healthy addition to the meal.
7. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta served grilled or baked offers comfort alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta Fagioli, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can impact flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables first can lead to a bland soup. Always start by cooking your onions, carrots, and celery to enhance their flavors.
• Overcooking the Pasta: If you add pasta too early or cook it too long, it can become mushy. Add it in the last few minutes of cooking for the best texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your soup flat. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices to elevate the dish.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap canned tomatoes or broth can ruin your dish. Invest in good quality ingredients for a richer taste.
• Not Adjusting for Thickness: If your soup is too thick, you may need to add more broth or water. Always check the consistency before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta Fagioli Recipe: Hearty Italian Comfort

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli Recipe: Hearty Italian Comfort

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Pasta Fagioli Recipe a comforting dish?

The combination of hearty beans, savory vegetables, and rich broth creates a warming bowl that satisfies any craving.

Can I customize this Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or even switch out the beans based on your preference.

Is this Pasta Fagioli Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep since it stores well and tastes even better after a day in the fridge.

How do I make this Pasta Fagioli Recipe vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Fagioli Recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Try this hearty Italian comfort food today and enjoy its warm embrace!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Pasta Fagioli Recipe: Hearty Italian Comfort

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

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Description

Warm up with our Pasta Fagioli Recipe: Hearty Italian Comfort, a delightful blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings for a cozy meal. This classic Italian bean soup combines nutritious beans and perfectly cooked pasta with an array of aromatic vegetables, making it not only filling but also a wholesome choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its rich broth and customizable spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy it with fresh bread or a light salad for a complete dining experience that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans (drained)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery for 5–7 minutes until softened; add minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
2. Add cannellini beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, broth, water, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Stir in ditalini pasta and simmer for 8–10 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 0mg