Pasta Fagioli Soup: A Hearty and Delicious Italian Classic Recipe

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul, making it a beloved staple in many Italian households. This comforting soup, which translates to “pasta and beans,” has roots that trace back to the peasant cuisine of Italy, where simple ingredients were transformed into hearty meals. Over the years, Pasta Fagioli Soup has evolved, but its essence remains the same: a rich, flavorful broth filled with tender pasta and nutritious beans.

What I adore about Pasta Fagioli Soup is its incredible versatility and the way it brings people together. The combination of al dente pasta, creamy beans, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a convenient dish that can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that celebrates the heart of Italian cooking!

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian option)
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Preparing the Base

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The aroma will be delightful!
3. Next, toss in the diced carrots and celery. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.

Building the Flavor

4. Now it’s time to add the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, and then add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans. This will give the soup a hearty texture and protein boost.
6. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and add the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always adjust the seasoning later, so start with a little and add more as needed.
7. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Cooking the Pasta

8. After the soup has simmered, it’s time to add the pasta. Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup back to a gentle boil.
9. Add the small pasta of your choice to the pot. Stir it in and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook!
10. While the pasta is cooking, give the soup a taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. This is your chance to make it just right!

Final Touches

11. Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, remove the bay leaf from the pot. It’s time to serve!
12. For a beautiful presentation, ladle the soup into bowls. If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
13. If you’re a cheese lover, don’t forget to add a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of each bowl. It adds a wonderful creaminess and depth of flavor.

Storing and Reheating

14. If you have leftovers (which I highly doubt because it’s so delicious!), let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
15. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up, as the pasta will absorb some of the liquid as it sits.

Tips and Variations

• If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
• For a meatier version, you

Conclusion:

In summary, this Pasta Fagioli Soup is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to warm their hearts and bellies with a comforting, hearty dish. The combination of tender pasta, creamy beans, and a rich, flavorful broth creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, swapping in different types of beans, or even tossing in some cooked sausage or pancetta for an extra layer of flavor. I highly recommend serving this delightful soup with a crusty piece of bread or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for that perfect finishing touch. It’s also fantastic as a meal prep option, as the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights. I encourage you to give this Pasta Fagioli Soup a try and experience the joy it brings to your table. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own variations, I’m sure you’ll find this soup to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!

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