This hearty Pasta e Fagioli soup is a comforting bowl of Italian goodness that warms the soul and satisfies your hunger. Perfect for any occasion, this versatile dish allows you to use whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it both practical and delicious. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or beans based on what you have available, making it a great way to reduce food waste.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of spices, beans, and tomatoes creates a rich and savory flavor profile that is truly satisfying.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Nutritious Meal: Packed with beans and veggies, this soup offers a good source of fiber and protein while still being low in calories.
- One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Pasta e Fagioli soup, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large stock pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large stock pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all the ingredients without spilling.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
Ingredients
For this delicious Pasta e Fagioli soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Vegetables
- 1/4 cup oil (vegetable OR olive)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 1 tbsp garlic (minced)
- 2 whole carrots (chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
Broth and Beans
- 6 cups broth (chicken OR vegetable)
- 1 can kidney beans (drained)
- 1 can cannelloni beans (white) (drained)
Tomatoes and Spices
- 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
- 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Pasta
- 4 cups water
- 1-2 cups dry pasta (uncooked)
How to Make Pasta e Fagioli soup
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable OR olive oil over medium heat in a large stock pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Sauté onion, celery, garlic, and carrots in the oil for 4-5 minutes or until onions begin to turn translucent.
Step 3: Add Broth and Beans
Add chicken OR vegetable broth to pot along with tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannelloni beans, water, and spices.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil; then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add pasta to the pot and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until it reaches your desired consistency.
Enjoy your delightful bowl of Pasta e Fagioli soup!
How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli soup
Pasta e Fagioli soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a light meal or something hearty, this soup can easily fit your needs. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Serve the soup with crusty bread for dipping. This combination adds a delightful texture and helps soak up the flavorful broth.
Topped with Parmesan
- Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over each bowl before serving. The cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of freshness. These herbs not only add color but also enhance the overall taste.
Accompanied by a Salad
- Pair the soup with a simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar. This light side balances the hearty nature of the soup.
With Croutons
- Add homemade or store-bought croutons for extra crunch. They provide a satisfying contrast to the soft pasta and beans in the soup.
As Part of a Larger Meal
- Serve it as an appetizer in a multi-course Italian meal. This can include dishes like bruschetta or antipasto platters to start your dinner off right.
How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli soup
To make sure your Pasta e Fagioli soup turns out just right, consider these helpful tips:
Use Quality Broth: A good-quality chicken or vegetable broth enhances the flavor significantly. Homemade broth is even better if you have time!
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh vegetables rather than canned ones when possible. This will improve the taste and nutritional value of your soup.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for a more personalized flavor profile.
Cook Pasta Separately: If you’re making this soup ahead of time, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli soup
Completing your meal with complementary side dishes will elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:
Garlic Bread
A classic choice, garlic bread is easy to prepare and pairs perfectly with the flavors of the soup.Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the rich soup flavors.Stuffed Peppers
Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables offer a hearty option that works well alongside pasta e fagioli.Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted veggies can add variety and nutrition to your meal while also enhancing its visual appeal.Bruschetta
Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta provides a light yet flavorful starter that prepares your palate for the main dish.Antipasto Platter
An assortment of olives, cured meats (like turkey), cheeses, and pickled vegetables make for an exciting side that complements Italian cuisine perfectly.Cornbread
Moist cornbread can add sweetness and texture, making it an enjoyable addition to balance out savory flavors in the soup.Zucchini Fritters
These crispy bites are not only delicious but also add an interesting twist to your meal when served alongside pasta e fagioli.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Pasta e Fagioli soup turn out perfect every time. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Skipping the sauté step: Many people rush through the initial sauté of vegetables. Take your time to cook them until they’re soft and aromatic; this builds a flavorful base.
- Using the wrong type of beans: Not all beans work well in this soup. Stick with kidney and cannellini beans for the best texture and taste.
- Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy results. Cook it just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the soup.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving! You may need to adjust salt and pepper based on your personal preferences.
- Rushing the simmering phase: Allow the soup to simmer properly. This helps meld the flavors together, making each spoonful satisfying.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Pasta e Fagioli soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Pasta e Fagioli soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring frequently until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pasta e Fagioli soup.
What is Pasta e Fagioli soup?
Pasta e Fagioli soup is a classic Italian dish made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and broth. It’s hearty and comforting.
Can I make Pasta e Fagioli soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you have a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I customize my Pasta e Fagioli soup?
Add your favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini or swap out beans for chickpeas or lentils for variety.
Is Pasta e Fagioli soup healthy?
Yes! It’s packed with protein from beans and is low in calories compared to many other soups.
How long does Pasta e Fagioli soup last?
In the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days, but you can freeze it for up to 3 months if you want longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Pasta e Fagioli soup is not only easy and quick to make but also highly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or different types of pasta based on what you have on hand. This hearty Italian dish is sure to please everyone at your table, so give it a try!
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Pasta e Fagioli soup is a delightful and hearty Italian dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This versatile recipe combines rich flavors from beans, fresh vegetables, and herbs in a savory broth, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pot wonder not only satisfies your hunger but also allows for easy cleanup. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or part of a larger meal, Pasta e Fagioli is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately six servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup vegetable or olive oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 1 tbsp garlic (minced)
- 2 whole carrots (chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can kidney beans (drained)
- 1 can cannellini beans (drained)
- 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz.)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (28 oz.)
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups water
- 1–2 cups dry pasta (uncooked)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large stock pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, celery, garlic, and carrots for about 4-5 minutes until onions are translucent.
- Add broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, water, and spices to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for approximately 15 minutes.
- Stir in the pasta and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until al dente.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Customize by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini. For an extra flavor boost, use homemade broth if available. To prevent pasta from becoming mushy when storing leftovers, cook it separately and add it just before serving.
