A hearty and comforting dish, the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. This rustic Italian soup combines beans, pasta, and vegetables in a savory broth, making it not only delicious but also versatile for various occasions. Its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients will warm your soul and leave you feeling satisfied.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Flavorful: The combination of herbs and tomatoes creates a rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Nutritious: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup is both healthy and filling.
- Versatile: Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or changing the type of pasta!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge, making it great for leftovers or meal planning.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand makes preparation easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking soups as it allows ample space for all ingredients to simmer properly.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring efficiency while prepping.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of chopping onions, carrots, and other veggies.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while blending flavors.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For Flavor
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
For the Beans and Pasta
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans
- 1 cup small pasta
For Herbs and Seasoning
- 1 sprig rosemary (or ½ tsp dried)
- 2 sprigs thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
Optional Garnish
- Parmesan and parsley for serving (optional)
How to Make Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Sauté onion, carrot, and celery in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomato Paste and Diced Tomatoes
Stir in tomato paste followed by diced tomatoes to build a robust flavor base.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Beans
Add chicken or vegetable broth along with cannellini beans, kidney beans, herbs, bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Reduce heat and let simmer for 20–25 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add small pasta to the soup and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Step 6: Finish Up
Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove herbs before serving. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli!
How to Serve Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Serving Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit your taste. The rich flavors of this soup pair well with a variety of accompaniments, enhancing its rustic charm.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the hearty soup.
- Garlic Bread – This flavorful option adds an aromatic touch and complements the dish nicely.
Topped with Greens
- Fresh Parsley – Chopped parsley adds brightness and freshness to each bowl.
- Arugula or Spinach – A handful of baby arugula or spinach can enhance the soup’s nutrition and flavor.
Accompanying Salads
- Simple Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Caesar Salad – This classic salad provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy beans.
How to Perfect Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Perfecting your Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli requires attention to detail and some cooking tips. Here are a few ways to make it even better:
- Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh rosemary and thyme elevate the flavor profile compared to dried herbs.
- Cook Pasta Separately – To avoid mushy pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving.
- Adjust Consistency – If the soup is too thick, add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season Gradually – Taste as you go; adjusting salt and pepper at different stages ensures balanced flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Caprese Salad – Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a flavorful bite before your main dish.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil bring out their natural sweetness and complement the soup’s heartiness.
- Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices create a filling side that pairs well with pasta fagioli.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad – This nutritious salad combines quinoa, cucumbers, olives, and feta for a vibrant side option.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – These fluffy biscuits are perfect for mopping up leftover soup in your bowl.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be tricky, especially with recipes like the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables first enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this step; it adds depth to your soup.
- Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushiness. Cook it just until al dente for the best texture.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavor.
- Not removing herb stems: Leaving stems in can make your soup bitter. Always remove herbs like rosemary and thyme before serving.
- Using low-quality broth: The broth greatly affects the taste of your soup. Choose high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing.
Reheating Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe.
Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
You can substitute other beans like black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Just ensure they are cooked or canned for convenience.
How long does it take to make Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe?
The total time is approximately 55 minutes, including prep and cooking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and skip any meat additions. The beans provide plenty of protein.
Can I add other vegetables to the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or any seasonal veggies you enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe is not only hearty but also versatile, allowing room for personal touches. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe, a hearty Italian soup that’s perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. This rustic dish combines nutritious beans, tender vegetables, and al dente pasta simmered in a savory broth. With its rich taste and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to warm your soul on chilly nights. Easy to prepare and customizable, this soup allows you to incorporate your favorite veggies or pasta types, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. Enjoy a bowl topped with fresh parsley or parmesan for an extra touch!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans
- 1 cup small pasta
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) and seasoning (salt, pepper)
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste and diced tomatoes to build flavor.
- Add broth along with both types of beans and herbs; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg