The Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This hearty soup is both healthy and vegetarian, making it perfect for various occasions, from family dinners to cozy gatherings with friends. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, this recipe is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be made on the stove, in a crockpot, or an instant pot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer the stovetop method or using a slow cooker or instant pot, this recipe fits your lifestyle.
- Flavorful Comfort Food: Each bite is filled with savory herbs and spices that make this soup comforting and satisfying.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Using the right equipment not only speeds up preparation but also enhances the final dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Crockpot or Instant Pot (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 cup quartered carrots
For the Soup
- 2 15 oz cans cooked cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 dried bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For Liquid & Pasta
- 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
How to Make Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add the quartered carrots to the pot. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 3: Combine Base Ingredients
Stir in the rinsed cannellini beans, tomato sauce, bay leaf, basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all flavors.
Step 4: Add Liquids
Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Once boiling, add the dry ditalini pasta. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 25 minutes or until pasta is tender.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your warm bowl of Pasta Fagioli!
How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pasta Fagioli is a hearty and comforting soup that can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Basil Leaves – Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that enhances the flavor.
Accompanied by Bread
- Crusty Bread – Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread pairs perfectly, adding richness and flavor.
Topped with Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan on top for a savory finish.
- Vegan Cheese – For a vegan option, sprinkle nutritional yeast or your favorite dairy-free cheese.
As a Main Course
- Serve as is – Enjoy it hot as a filling main dish, perfect for any meal.
How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Creating the ultimate Pasta Fagioli requires some simple tips to ensure it’s packed with flavor and texture.
- Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and good-quality broth make a difference in taste.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust spices according to your preference; don’t hesitate to add more herbs!
- Cook Pasta Al Dente – If cooking separately, make sure the pasta remains slightly firm to hold up in the soup.
- Include Fresh Veggies – Feel free to add zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Let It Rest – Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors together.
- Store Properly – Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Pasta Fagioli can enhance its flavors and make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
- Antipasto Platter – Include olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers for an Italian touch.
- Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a colorful appetizer.
- Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice complement the soup beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrients alongside your meal.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits with garlic butter offer a satisfying contrast to the soup’s texture.
- Polenta Cakes – Creamy polenta cakes grilled until crispy provide a unique side that pairs well with broth-based dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pasta Fagioli can be simple, but there are common mistakes that could ruin your dish. Here are a few to watch out for:
Using the wrong beans: Always use cooked cannellini beans as they provide the perfect texture and flavor for your Pasta Fagioli.
Skipping the aromatics: Don’t skip on onions and garlic. They add depth to the soup. Saute them until they’re fragrant before adding other ingredients.
Overcooking the pasta: Be careful not to overcook ditalini pasta. Add it in the last few minutes of cooking for the best texture.
Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust your seasonings. A pinch of salt or a dash of herbs can elevate your Pasta Fagioli.
Ignoring storage options: If you plan leftovers, make sure to follow proper storage instructions to keep your soup fresh and delicious.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this Pasta Fagioli Recipe:
What is Pasta Fagioli?
Pasta Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta and beans, often flavored with garlic and herbs. It’s both hearty and comforting.
Can I make this Pasta Fagioli Recipe vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products, making it suitable for plant-based diets.
How long does it take to cook this dish?
This easy Pasta Fagioli Recipe takes about 35 minutes from prep to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
What can I serve with Pasta Fagioli?
Serve this comforting soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that your family will love.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta Fagioli Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting the spices according to your taste. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and hearty Italian soup that brings warmth to any meal. This easy, vegetarian dish combines tender ditalini pasta with creamy cannellini beans and fresh vegetables, creating a rich and flavorful broth infused with aromatic herbs. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this delightful recipe can be made on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot. Enjoy it as a main course or serve it alongside crusty bread for a satisfying and nutritious experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 cup quartered carrots
- 2 15 oz cans cooked cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
- 1 dried bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add quartered carrots and cook until slightly softened.
- Stir in rinsed cannellini beans, tomato sauce, bay leaf, and dried herbs; mix well.
- Pour in vegetable broth and water, bring to a boil.
- Add ditalini pasta; reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Remove bay leaf before serving; ladle into bowls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
