Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic)

This Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic) delivers a warm and comforting bowl of Italian goodness. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this dish combines nutritious beans, flavorful vegetables, and hearty pasta, making it a staple in any kitchen. With its rich taste and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in less than an hour.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs, vegetables, and beans creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with fiber and protein from the beans and vegetables, this pasta e fagioli recipe is a healthy choice for any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a hearty side. It’s perfect for meal prepping or serving guests.
• Comfort Food: This cozy soup warms you up from the inside out, making it ideal for cold nights or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential tools before you start preparing your pasta e fagioli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for cooking the soup evenly without splattering.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures quick and efficient chopping of vegetables for even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

This pasta e fagioli recipe is made with wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Base

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced

For the Soup

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 3 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Beans and Pasta

• 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Freshness

• 2 cups chopped kale
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Italian

How to Make Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic)

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic.
– Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes along with vegetable broth and water.
– Add bay leaves, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.
– Bring to a boil.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
– Let it simmer for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Stir in Beans and Pasta

Add drained cannellini beans and ditalini pasta to the pot.
– Cook according to package directions for pasta (usually around 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Finish with Greens

Incorporate chopped kale into the mixture just before serving.
– Stir in chopped parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot with crusty bread for an authentic Italian experience! Enjoy your hearty bowl of comfort!

How to Serve Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic)

Serving the Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe is not just about the soup; it’s also about creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly with the soup, perfect for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that complements the soup’s heartiness.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for added color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Alternative: Use a plant-based cheese alternative for a creamy finish without dairy.

With Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: A vegan Caesar salad offers crispness and a zesty contrast to the pasta fagioli.

How to Perfect Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic)

To elevate your Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, consider these helpful tips that will make your soup even more delicious.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for a richer flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your palate.
• Simmer Slowly: Let the soup simmer longer for deeper flavors; patience pays off!
• Add Extra Greens: Incorporate spinach or Swiss chard towards the end of cooking for added nutrition.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To avoid mushy pasta, cook ditalini separately and add it just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic)

Pairing side dishes with your Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Consider these delicious options!

1. Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, this appetizer is light and refreshing.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer a sweet and savory complement to the soup.
3. Caprese Salad: A fresh salad made with tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella adds brightness to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice make a filling side that pairs well with soup.
5. Focaccia Bread: This soft Italian bread is perfect for sopping up every last drop of your hearty soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables can be a flavorful start to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic), it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using low-quality broth: A rich broth enhances the soup’s flavor. Opt for a high-quality vegetable broth for the best results.
• Skipping the aromatics: Neglecting onions, carrots, or garlic can lead to bland soup. Always sauté these ingredients first to build a flavorful base.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you add pasta too early, it may become mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking to maintain its texture.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can leave your soup flat. Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Dried herbs lack the freshness of their fresh counterparts. Use fresh parsley and kale to brighten up your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic)

• Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic):

How long does this pasta e fagioli recipe take?

The total time required is approximately 55 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Can I customize the beans in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute cannellini beans with other varieties like kidney or black beans based on your preference.

Is this pasta fagioli recipe vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and uses vegetable broth as its base.

What can I serve with pasta e fagioli?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic) is a delightful combination of beans, pasta, and vegetables that offers warmth and comfort. It’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re adding different vegetables or beans, feel free to make this recipe your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe (Hearty Italian Classic)

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of our Best Pasta e Fagioli Recipe, a hearty Italian classic that brings comfort to chilly evenings and family gatherings. This wholesome soup is packed with nutritious cannellini beans, vibrant vegetables, and al dente ditalini pasta, all simmered in a rich vegetable broth infused with aromatic herbs. In under an hour, you can enjoy a delicious bowl that not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your soul. Perfect as a main course or a cozy side dish, this recipe is versatile enough for meal prep or serving guests. Dive into this delightful blend of flavors and textures, and let this comforting soup become a staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 3 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 2 cups chopped kale
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic; sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, bay leaves, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Add drained cannellini beans and ditalini pasta; cook according to package directions (approximately 8-10 minutes).
5. Just before serving, stir in chopped kale, parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 590mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg