Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

This easy, authentic pasta fagioli soup recipe is not just a meal; it’s a cherished family tradition that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup is perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings with friends, or simply when you crave some heartwarming Italian flavors. With rich tomato broth, hearty beans, and tender pasta, this dish stands out for its delightful taste and quick preparation time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of San Marzano tomatoes and savory chicken broth creates a deliciously robust base.
• Hearty Ingredients: Filling beans and pasta ensure that each bowl of soup satisfies your hunger.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or paired with crusty bread, this soup adapts to any dining situation.
• Family Tradition: Share the love of cooking with loved ones by passing down this authentic recipe.

Tools and Preparation

To create Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Food processor or knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is essential for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients.
• Food processor or knife: A food processor speeds up chopping tasks, but a knife works just as well for those who prefer traditional methods.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best flavor balance in your soup.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot while mixing in all those delicious flavors.

Ingredients

This easy, authentic pasta fagioli soup recipe is a family heirloom and takes less than 45 minutes start to finish.

For the Broth Base

• 1 28oz can San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes
• 48oz chicken broth

For the Hearty Components

• 2 14.5oz cans of cannellini beans
• 4oz imported turkey slices, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For Flavoring

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil

For the Pasta

• 1lb box of ditalini pasta (Barilla brand)

How to Make Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ditalini Pasta

1. Bring a pot of salted water to boil.
2. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente (about 6-7 minutes).
3. Drain the pasta and set aside; it will continue cooking when added to the soup.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. In a medium-large pot, cover the bottom with olive oil (about 1/4 cup).
2. Sauté the diced onions over medium heat until they are fragrant and translucent (about 5 minutes), stirring often to prevent scorching.
3. Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for one additional minute while stirring.

Step 3: Add Turkey and Beans

1. Stir in the diced turkey slices, cooking them for about 5 minutes until heated through.
2. Add both cans of cannellini beans (with their juice) to the mixture.
3. Bring everything to a low boil while stirring frequently.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

1. Remove whole tomatoes from their can using your hands and place them into a food processor (discard sauce).
2. Pulse them once or twice until they’re broken up but not completely pureed.
3. Pour in the chicken broth along with the processed tomatoes into the pot and bring it all to a boil.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

1. Season your soup with ground pepper as desired.
2. Reduce heat to low after boiling and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated pecorino romano or parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes for heat, and warm crusty bread on the side for dipping!

How to Serve Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Here are some suggestions to enhance your serving.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Adding freshly chopped basil or parsley on top brings a burst of color and flavor.
• Thyme Sprigs: A sprig of thyme adds an earthy aroma and complements the soup’s rich taste.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Pecorino Romano: Grate some pecorino romano cheese over the soup just before serving for a salty, savory kick.
• Parmesan: Shredded parmesan offers a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the ingredients in the soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: A slice of warm sourdough is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread enhances the meal with added flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

To achieve the best results with Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these tips:

• Use High-Quality Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for a sweeter and richer flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook ditalini pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; you may want to add more ground pepper or salt based on your preference.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for 15 minutes melds all the flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta fagioli.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition alongside your meal.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese can be a comforting addition that complements the soup well.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an elegant touch to your dinner spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your pasta fagioli soup even more delightful. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the soup. To avoid this, cook the ditalini until it’s al dente and drain it before adding it to the soup.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance flavor significantly. Always use fresh garlic and onions for a robust taste rather than pre-packaged alternatives.
• Not seasoning properly: A well-seasoned soup is key to great flavor. Remember to taste your soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed during cooking.
• Rushing the simmering process: A slow simmer allows flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t skip this step; let your soup simmer for at least 15 minutes for the best results.
• Ignoring storage practices: Proper storage preserves freshness. Allow your soup to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it in airtight containers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags; it lasts for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

How can I customize Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup?

You can add vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Adjust the beans or use different pasta shapes based on your preference.

Can I make Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit turkey slices. You can add more beans or veggies instead.

What is the best way to serve Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Serve hot with freshly grated cheese on top, crushed red pepper flakes, and crusty bread on the side for a satisfying meal.

How long does it take to prepare Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup?

The total time is about 45 minutes—10 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to adapt it with different ingredients while still keeping that authentic flavor intact. Try this recipe today and experience its delightful taste!