Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Warm up with a bowl of homemade Pasta e Fagioli! This hearty Italian soup is packed with pasta, beans, and a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a cozy and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a quick lunch or a warm dinner, this Pasta e Fagioli Recipe will impress your family and friends with its delightful flavors and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with beans and pasta, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, even novice cooks can whip this up.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge, making it great for leftovers or meal planning.
• Nutritious Choice: Rich in fiber and plant-based protein, it’s a healthy option for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Pasta e Fagioli, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient amounts for perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 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)

Base Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes (1 can)
• 30 ounces cannellini beans (2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 4 cups vegetable broth

Pasta and 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. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

1. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste; cook for an additional minute.
2. Add the diced tomatoes along with their juices, cannellini beans, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate the Pasta

1. Add the ditalini pasta to the pot. Simmer for another 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
2. Stir in the chopped tuscan kale until wilted.

Step 4: Serve Your Soup

Serve immediately while hot! Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired. Enjoy your homemade Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Serving Pasta e Fagioli is an opportunity to enhance its comforting flavors and make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement this hearty soup.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
• Grated Parmesan – Add a sprinkle of cheese for added richness and flavor.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread – Serve with warm, crusty sourdough for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread – Enjoy with garlic bread for a flavorful twist that complements the dish.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad – A light Caesar salad pairs well, balancing the richness of the soup.
• Spinach Salad – Tossed spinach with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the flavor profile of your soup.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

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

• Use Fresh Vegetables – Fresh ingredients enhance flavor; opt for seasonal vegetables when possible.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually – Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately – For better texture, consider cooking pasta separately and adding it just before serving.
• Let it Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Complementing your Pasta e Fagioli with the right side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing side.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic is perfect for dipping.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients alongside the soup.
4. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables provides variety.
5. Crispy Polenta Fries – These golden bites offer a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with soup.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots – Soft knots brushed with garlic butter are excellent for sopping up broth.
7. Mixed Greens Salad – Lightly dressed greens provide a fresh contrast to the hearty soup.
8. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a filling accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Pasta e Fagioli Recipe from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning enough can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcooking pasta: If you overcook the pasta, it will become mushy. Cook it until just al dente since it will continue to soften in the soup.
• Skipping the simmer: Failing to let the soup simmer allows flavors to meld. Letting it simmer for at least 20 minutes enriches the taste.
• Ignoring freshness: Using wilted vegetables affects both texture and flavor. Always choose fresh, vibrant produce for the best results.
• Wrong bean type: Using beans that are too soft can break apart in the soup. Opt for cannellini beans, as they hold their shape well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Consider leaving out the pasta before freezing, as it may become mushy.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish:

What is Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Pasta e Fagioli is an Italian soup made with pasta and beans, typically featuring a rich broth and vegetables. It’s hearty and comforting.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or substitute with other types of beans according to your preference.

How can I make Pasta e Fagioli Recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, ensure you use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based additions.

What pasta works best for Pasta e Fagioli Recipe?

Ditalini is recommended due to its small size that complements the beans well. However, any small pasta will work!

Final Thoughts

This Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or additional spices. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!