Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Warm up with a bowl of homemade Pasta e Fagioli! This hearty Italian soup is filled with pasta, beans, and a rich, flavorful broth. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or lunch gatherings, offering delicious comfort in each spoonful. With its simple ingredients and ease of preparation, it’s a dish that anyone can master while enjoying the authentic taste of Italy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This Pasta e Fagioli recipe offers a satisfying blend of pasta and beans that keeps you full and nourished.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this comforting soup ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of pasta.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with beans and kale, this soup provides essential nutrients without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this delicious Pasta e Fagioli recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes prep work faster and easier, ensuring clean cuts.

Ingredients

Base 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

Flavor Boosters

• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes (1 can)

Protein & Broth

• 30 ounces cannellini beans (2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 4 cups vegetable broth

Pasta & Greens

• 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

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

Step 2: Add Flavor Components

1. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste.
2. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes with their juices, cannellini beans, and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Add ditalini pasta to the pot.
2. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
3. Stir in chopped tuscan kale and cook until wilted.

Step 4: Serve Your Soup

1. Ladle into bowls and drizzle with extra olive oil if desired.
2. Enjoy your hearty bowl of Pasta e Fagioli immediately!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Pasta e Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked or toasted crusty bread makes an excellent companion. It’s perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil on top enhances flavor and adds a touch of richness to each bowl.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a burst of freshness and color, making each serving more inviting.

Serve with Grated Cheese Alternative

• For a cheesy touch, consider using a plant-based cheese alternative. Sprinkle it on top just before serving for added flavor.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli can take your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth will greatly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference to ensure balanced flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For best results, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

To complement your hearty Pasta e Fagioli, consider these delightful side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a favorite alongside soup, adding crunch and flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella alternatives, and basil provides a light contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring an earthy element that pairs well with the soup’s richness.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers brightness and acidity.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables make for a satisfying side.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with plant-based cheese provides comfort and complements the soup’s texture.
7. Herb Focaccia: Soft focaccia infused with herbs adds an aromatic touch that’s perfect for dipping.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy zucchini fritters offer a fun twist, perfect for those looking for something crunchy on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Pasta e Fagioli turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables properly can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to soften them before adding other ingredients.
• Using too much salt: It’s easy to over-salt your dish. Start with less and adjust as needed after tasting.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it and aim for al dente to maintain texture.
• Not rinsing beans: Canned beans can have excess sodium or preservatives. Rinse them thoroughly to ensure a cleaner taste.
• Ignoring the broth quality: Using low-quality broth can affect the overall flavor of your soup. Opt for a flavorful vegetable broth for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delicious Pasta e Fagioli recipe.

Can I use different types of pasta in this Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

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

How do I make this Pasta e Fagioli recipe vegetarian?

Simply stick to vegetable broth and skip any meat additions for a fully vegetarian version!

What is the best way to store leftovers of my Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I add other vegetables to my Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! Feel free to include any vegetables you like, such as zucchini or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta e Fagioli recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and sure to warm you up on chilly days. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty bowl today!