Pasta e Fagioli soup

This hearty Pasta e Fagioli soup is a comforting dish that brings together vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to gatherings with friends, this Italian soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to include whatever vegetables or legumes you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to nourish yourself and your loved ones with minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Hearty: With a blend of spices and hearty beans, this soup is rich in flavor and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to add any veggies or beans based on what you have at home.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this soup is a great choice for those looking for a wholesome meal option.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Pasta e Fagioli soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups/spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Ideal for simmering soups, allowing even heat distribution.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables, making prep time faster.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without damaging your cookware, helping to mix all the flavors well.

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Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your flavorful Pasta e Fagioli soup:

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 and Water

• 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

Saute the following ingredients until softened:
1. Add diced onion, minced garlic, chopped celery, and carrots.
2. Cook for about 4-5 minutes or until onions become translucent.

Step 3: Add Broth and Spices

Add the remaining ingredients into the pot:
– Pour in chicken or vegetable broth along with tomato sauce and diced tomatoes.
– Add drained kidney beans and cannelloni beans.
– Stir in water along with oregano, parsley, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil:
– Once boiling, reduce heat.
– Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes to let flavors meld.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked pasta:
– Stir in 1-2 cups of dry pasta.
– Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until pasta reaches your desired consistency.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Pasta e Fagioli soup!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli soup

Pasta e Fagioli soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal or something more elaborate, here are some great serving suggestions.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Add Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds creaminess and enhances the soup’s savory taste.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Pair your soup with warm garlic bread for a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the soup.

Create a Soup Bar

• Toppings Station: Set up a toppings station with options like diced onions, croutons, and extra beans. This allows everyone to customize their bowl.

Include a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the hearty flavors of the soup and add freshness to your meal.

Use Different Pasta Shapes

• Ditalini or Shells: Experiment with different pasta shapes, like ditalini or small shells, to change up the texture and appearance of your soup.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli soup

To make your Pasta e Fagioli soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Base: Start by sautéing your vegetables until they’re caramelized for deeper flavors.
• Quality Broth: Use high-quality chicken or vegetable broth as it significantly impacts the overall taste.
• Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs toward the end of cooking for vibrant flavors that pop.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For better texture, cook pasta in a separate pot and add it just before serving. This prevents it from absorbing too much liquid.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some beans before adding them to the pot.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking will enhance its flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli soup

Pasta e Fagioli soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad provides balance and contrasts nicely with the hearty soup.
3. Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a flavorful bite that complements the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer a healthy side filled with flavor and nutrients.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese can serve as a filling accompaniment alongside your soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers make for an eye-catching side that pairs well with Italian flavors.
7. Caprese Skewers: These skewers are light and refreshing, combining mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
8. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia infused with herbs can soak up every last drop of delicious broth while being delightful on its own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta e Fagioli soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the sautéing: Skipping the step of sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always sauté onions, garlic, celery, and carrots first to enhance flavor.
• Boldly ignore broth quality: Using low-quality broth can dull the taste of your soup. Choose a good-quality chicken or vegetable broth for better depth and richness.
• Boldly overcook pasta: Adding too much pasta or cooking it too long can make your soup mushy. Add pasta towards the end of cooking and keep an eye on its texture.
• Boldly forget seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings during cooking can result in a flat dish. Always taste your soup and tweak salt, herbs, and spices as needed.
• Boldly skip the beans: Omitting beans may lead to a lack of protein and heartiness. Include both kidney and cannellini beans for a fulfilling meal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Pasta e Fagioli soup in airtight containers.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli soup

• Cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pasta e Fagioli soup.

What is Pasta e Fagioli soup?

Pasta e Fagioli soup is a traditional Italian dish made with pasta and beans, typically flavored with vegetables and herbs. It’s hearty and comforting!

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli soup vegetarian?

Yes! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and it’s easily made vegetarian while still being delicious.

How do I customize my Pasta e Fagioli soup?

Feel free to add seasonal vegetables, different types of beans, or even switch up the herbs based on personal preference for unique flavors.

What type of pasta should I use?

You can use any small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand!

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli soup is not only hearty but also versatile! You can adapt it based on what you have available in your pantry or fridge. Whether you stick closely to the recipe or experiment with different ingredients, this comforting bowl of goodness is sure to delight. Give it a try today!