Craving a comforting dish that warms the soul? Pasta Fagioli is an Italian classic that combines tender pasta, creamy beans, and a medley of vegetables in a savory broth. This dish is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or cozy nights in. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g protein, 8g fat, 35g carbohydrates, and 6g fiber. This nutritional breakdown is for one person, making it a healthy choice for a fulfilling meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the cannellini beans and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook for about 10 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and remove from heat.
- Let the soup sit for a few minutes to thicken.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta shapes. You can also use different beans such as kidney beans or black beans for a twist on flavor. For a vegetarian option, ensure the broth is vegetable-based.
Serving and Pairings
Pasta Fagioli pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. This hearty dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and makes for excellent leftovers.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it is in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushiness; check for al dente.
- Not seasoning adequately can result in bland flavors; taste as you go.
- Using too much liquid can make the soup too thin; adjust as needed.
- Skipping the sautéing step can prevent flavors from developing.
- Forgetting to rinse canned beans can add excess sodium.
Helpful Tips
- Use homemade broth for richer flavor.
- Add a bay leaf during cooking for extra depth.
- Let the soup sit for a bit before serving to enhance flavors.
- Garnish with extra herbs for a fresh touch.
FAQs
What does Pasta Fagioli mean?
Pasta Fagioli translates to “pasta and beans” in Italian, reflecting the dish’s main ingredients. It’s a hearty soup that showcases the simplicity and comfort of Italian home cooking.
Can I make Pasta Fagioli ahead of time?
Yes, Pasta Fagioli can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Is Pasta Fagioli vegetarian?
Traditional Pasta Fagioli can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth. It’s a versatile dish that can easily cater to various dietary preferences.
Can I add meat to Pasta Fagioli?
Certainly! You can add cooked sausage or pancetta for a meatier version. Just sauté it with the vegetables at the beginning for added flavor.
How can I thicken Pasta Fagioli?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the beans before adding them or let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. Adding a bit of pasta can also help achieve a thicker consistency.
Conclusion
Pasta Fagioli is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of Italian flavors and comfort. With its simple ingredients and hearty nature, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking experience and savor every bite!
Pasta Fagioli
Ingredients
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 can 15 oz cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the cannellini beans and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook for about 10 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and remove from heat.
- Let the soup sit for a few minutes to thicken.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
