Name: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/4 cup vegetable or olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 whole carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 can kidney beans, drained; 1 can cannelloni beans, drained; 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz); 1 can diced tomatoes (28 oz); 1 to 2 cups uncooked pasta (your choice)

This hearty Pasta e Fagioli soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this Italian soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for busy weekdays. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—you can customize it with seasonal veggies or whatever you have on hand. Enjoy a bowl of warmth that will surely delight your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Flavor Packed: A blend of herbs and spices ensures that every spoonful is bursting with flavor.
Versatile: Use any beans or vegetables you have at home to make this soup uniquely yours.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
Comforting: Nothing beats a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day; it’s pure comfort food.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

Large stock pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, improving your prep time significantly.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Pasta e Fagioli soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

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)
1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
1 28 oz can diced tomatoes

Herbs and Spices

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 Addition

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 Vegetables

Saute onion, celery, garlic, and carrots in the oil for 4-5 minutes or until onions begin to turn translucent.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add chicken OR vegetable broth to the pot along with tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, water, and spices.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil; then reduce heat and allow it to simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Add uncooked pasta to the pot. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until pasta reaches your desired consistency.

Enjoy your homemade Pasta e Fagioli soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli soup

Pasta e Fagioli soup is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or as part of a gathering, here are some delightful ways to serve this Italian classic.

With Fresh Bread

Crusty Baguette – Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
Garlic Bread – Pair with garlic bread for an extra touch of flavor that complements the soup perfectly.

Topped with Cheese

Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan on top before serving for a rich, nutty flavor.
Mozzarella – Add cubes of mozzarella for a melty addition that kids will love.

Garnished with Herbs

Fresh Basil – Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for a burst of freshness.
Parsley – A sprinkle of parsley adds color and enhances the overall presentation.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli soup

To make your Pasta e Fagioli soup truly special, consider these tips that can elevate your dish.

Use Quality Broth – A flavorful broth is essential; use homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for the best taste.
Customize Your Beans – Feel free to mix different types of beans to add variety and texture.
Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you cook and adjust the salt and spices according to your preference for a personalized flavor.
Cook Pasta Al Dente – To avoid mushy pasta, cook it separately and add it right before serving if you prefer firmer pasta.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli soup

Complement your Pasta e Fagioli soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

Caprese Salad – A fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with olive oil.
Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses pairs beautifully with the soup.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a healthy and colorful side option.
Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds crunch and flavor.
Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Focaccia Bread – This soft, flavorful bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of your delicious soup.
Stuffed Peppers – Peppers stuffed with rice and veggies make a hearty accompaniment that complements the flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta e Fagioli soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

Bold timing: Overcooking the vegetables can result in mushy textures. To avoid this, sauté until just tender and then add your liquids.
Bold broth choice: Using low-quality broth can diminish the soup’s flavor. Always opt for a good quality chicken or vegetable broth for a rich taste.
Bold pasta overload: Adding too much pasta can make the soup overly thick. Start with less pasta and add more as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Bold seasoning errors: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can lead to bland soup. Taste frequently during cooking and adjust salt or spices as necessary.
Bold storage mistakes: Storing leftover soup improperly can affect its quality. Ensure it cools down first before placing it in airtight containers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Pasta e Fagioli soup will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli soup

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries 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, often enriched with vegetables and spices.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli soup?

Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you have on hand or use different types of beans based on your preference.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

Is Pasta e Fagioli soup healthy?

Yes! This hearty Italian soup is packed with fiber from beans and nutrients from vegetables, making it a nutritious meal option.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli soup is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. It’s a great way to utilize leftover ingredients while allowing for customization based on personal tastes. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easily you can make it your own!