Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Warm up with a bowl of homemade Pasta e Fagioli! This hearty Italian soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Packed with pasta, beans, and a rich broth, this Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it a must-try for any home cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables and beans, it provides a healthy dose of fiber and protein in every bowl.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and spices creates a rich and satisfying taste that will warm you up.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well, perfect for simmering soups and stews evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, allowing you to mix ingredients gently.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key for achieving the best flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

Warm up with a bowl of homemade Pasta e Fagioli! This hearty Italian soup is packed with pasta, beans, and a rich, flavorful broth. A cozy and comforting meal that’s easy to make!

Main Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 celery ribs (finely chopped)
• 2 medium carrots (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes (1 can)
• 30 ounces cannellini beans (2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta)
• 2 cups chopped tuscan kale

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, salt, and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Add in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then add the diced tomatoes along with their juices, cannellini beans, and vegetable broth. Let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Kale

Stir in the ditalini pasta into the pot. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Finally, add chopped tuscan kale to the mixture and cook until wilted.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Serve your delicious Pasta e Fagioli immediately while hot. Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired. Enjoy this flavorful soup that’s sure to bring comfort on chilly days!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Serving your Pasta e Fagioli is as important as making it. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its flavors and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley: Add a touch of chopped parsley for a fresh finish that brightens the dish.

With Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds richness and depth to the soup.
• Vegan Cheese: For a plant-based option, try using nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Add garlic-flavored bread for an extra layer of flavor that complements the soup.

Topped with Olive Oil

• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the taste and adds a beautiful sheen.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Making the perfect Pasta e Fagioli requires attention to detail and some helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables yield better flavor. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed after simmering for balanced flavors.
• Add More Beans: For added protein and texture, consider increasing the amount of cannellini beans in your recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli can create a satisfying meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil provides a delightful crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a savory element alongside the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with grains or vegetables make a hearty pairing.
5. Artisan Crackers: Serve some crunchy artisan crackers for added texture when enjoying your soup.
6. Olive Tapenade Crostini: Flavorful crostini topped with olive tapenade offer salty bites that complement the soup well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing Pasta e Fagioli. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Not properly sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland broth. Always cook the onion, celery, and carrots until they are soft for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can result in mushy noodles. Add the pasta during the last 10 minutes for perfect texture.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap canned beans and tomatoes can affect the taste. Choose high-quality ingredients for a more flavorful dish.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your soup flat. Taste frequently and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout cooking.
• Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Skipping the simmer time can prevent flavors from developing. Allow at least 20 minutes of simmering for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Make sure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as it may expand when frozen.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a pot over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water if necessary, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Pasta e Fagioli Recipe.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like zucchini or spinach or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take to make this Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

This Pasta e Fagioli Recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to cook, totaling around 60 minutes.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Ditalini pasta works well in this recipe due to its small size, but you can use any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or mini shells.

Can I make this Pasta e Fagioli Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly; just ensure that your vegetable broth is free from animal-derived ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting dish that’s not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for cozy dinners or lunch, and it’s sure to warm your heart!