Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful Italian dish that combines the comforting flavors of pasta and beans with a medley of vegetables. This hearty soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The secret flavor booster elevates this recipe to new heights, making it irresistible. With simple ingredients often found in your pantry, Pasta e Fagioli Soup will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps and commonly available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavor Packed – The combination of vegetables, beans, and the secret flavor booster creates a rich and satisfying taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile Dish – This soup can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes, making it adaptable to personal preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; the flavors only get better with time!
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the taste and heartiness of this Italian classic.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Pasta e Fagioli Soup efficiently, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Immersion blender (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for cooking soups evenly, allowing all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Immersion blender – Perfect for blending the soup to your desired consistency without transferring it to another container.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1/2 cup olive oil (divided; 1/4 cup for cooking, 1/4 cup reserved for serving)
• 1 cup onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup carrot (diced)
• 1 cup celery (diced)
• 1 cup potato (diced)

Beans and Broth

• 15 ounces cannellini beans (drained)
• 14.5 ounces canned tomatoes (diced, drained)
• 1 quart cold water
• 1 quart beef broth

Final Touches

• Parmesan rind
• 8 ounces pasta (ditallini or elbow macaroni)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated; 1/4 cup for cooking and 3/4 cup reserved for serving)

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Begin by heating 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are just translucent, seasoning with a sprinkle of kosher salt during the process.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Next, incorporate diced carrots, celery, and potatoes into the pot. Continue sautéing for about 10 minutes until these vegetables soften up. Remember to sprinkle in more salt as they cook.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans, Water, Broth, Salt, and Pepper

Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes and drained cannellini beans. Pour in the cold water along with beef broth. Season with remaining salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 4: Simmer with Parmesan Rind

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat afterward, then add a Parmesan rind. Let it simmer gently for about 45-60 minutes so all flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Blend (Kind Of)

After simmering, remove the Parmesan rind from the pot. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup until you reach your desired consistency—smooth yet chunky!

Step 6: Cook the Pasta in the Soup

Return the soup to a boil once more before adding uncooked pasta. Cook according to package instructions—about 10 minutes should do it!

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Once pasta is tender, turn off heat. Stir in butter along with grated Parmesan cheese until melted into a creamy finish.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your delicious Pasta e Fagioli Soup hot! Drizzle some reserved olive oil on top along with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Serving Pasta e Fagioli Soup is all about enhancing its delicious flavors while providing a delightful experience for your guests or family. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of this hearty dish.

With Homemade Garlic Breadsticks

• Pair the soup with warm, homemade garlic breadsticks for a comforting touch. The breadsticks can be used to soak up the flavorful broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley on top of each bowl before serving. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving can elevate the taste and add richness to the dish.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Serve with a crisp side salad made from mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.

With Grated Cheese

• Offer additional grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want an extra cheesy experience. It complements the flavors beautifully.

In Individual Bowls

• For a more elegant presentation, serve in individual bowls or ramekins. This makes it perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagioli Soup involves attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out great every time.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh vegetables bring vibrant flavors and textures that canned or frozen options cannot match.

• Balance seasoning: Season each layer of cooking gradually. This helps build depth and complexity in flavor throughout the soup.

• Choose quality broth: Use low-sodium beef broth for better control over salt levels, allowing other flavors to shine through without being overly salty.

• Blend lightly: When partially blending the soup, aim for a texture that maintains some chunky bits for added heartiness, instead of making it completely smooth.

• Cook pasta separately: For best results, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving if you prefer al dente pasta in your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Caprese Salad: A classic Italian salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. It’s fresh and complements the soup perfectly.

2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil provides a crunchy contrast that works well alongside the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned with herbs adds color and nutrition to your meal.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice and vegetables make for a hearty side that pairs nicely with the soup’s flavors.

5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese is another comforting side that complements the richness of Pasta e Fagioli Soup beautifully.

6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy dip served with pita chips offers a fun appetizer before diving into your main dish.

7. Mixed Grain Salad: A salad made from farro or barley mixed with vegetables provides a wholesome addition that is both filling and nutritious.

8. Focaccia Bread: Soft Italian bread infused with herbs can be served warm as a perfect accompaniment to soak up every last drop of delicious broth in the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta e Fagioli Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that could affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Bold choice of beans: Using the wrong type of beans can change the soup’s texture. Stick with cannellini or navy beans for the best results.
• Bold cooking time: Not cooking the soup long enough may leave flavors underdeveloped. Allow it to simmer for at least 45 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Bold seasoning errors: Skipping salt during cooking can result in bland soup. Season gradually at each step to build depth in flavor.
• Bold pasta mishaps: Adding too much pasta can thicken the soup excessively. Use the recommended amount and adjust if necessary based on your preference.
• Bold blending techniques: Over-blending can turn your soup into a puree. Blend it just enough to achieve a nice consistency while retaining some texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

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 since liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pasta e Fagioli Soup that might help you perfect your recipe.

What is Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian dish made with pasta and beans, enriched with vegetables and broth for extra flavor.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Yes! You can add different vegetables, switch up the type of beans, or use whole grain pasta for healthier options.

How do I make my Pasta e Fagioli Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, you can blend part of it or add more potatoes or beans during cooking.

Is Pasta e Fagioli Soup healthy?

Absolutely! It is packed with fiber from beans and veggies, making it a nutritious meal option.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to adapt it according to your taste preferences. Whether you choose to add extra vegetables or experiment with different types of pasta, this recipe will surely become a favorite among family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy its comforting warmth!

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Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian classic that brings together the comforting combination of pasta and beans, enriched with fresh vegetables and savory broth. This delightful soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The secret to its irresistible taste lies in its blend of ingredients and a touch of love as it simmers. With this simple recipe, you can create a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite, all while utilizing pantry staples.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced potatoes
• 15 ounces cannellini beans (drained)
• 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 quart chicken broth
• 8 ounces pasta (ditallini or elbow macaroni)

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Instructions

1. Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in carrots, celery, and potatoes; cook for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. Add diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, cold water, and chicken broth; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, add the Parmesan rind, and let simmer for 45–60 minutes.
5. Remove the rind; blend the soup slightly for desired consistency.
6. Return soup to a boil; add uncooked pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 10 minutes).
7. Stir in butter and grated Parmesan cheese before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 6mg