This Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Packed with tender beans, fresh vegetables, and delightful spices, it offers a warm embrace in every bowl. Whether you need a comforting meal after a long day or a nourishing dish for friends, this soup delivers rich flavors that will satisfy everyone. The combination of pasta and broth makes it both filling and delightful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Each ingredient contributes to a rich flavor profile that warms your soul.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish for dinner or as an appetizer; you can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with beans and veggies, this soup is high in protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice.
- Easily Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or switch up the pasta type to make it your own.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup without splattering. It holds all the ingredients comfortably.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface. It helps mix flavors evenly.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping, making prep work easier.
Ingredients
This Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup offers a delightful blend of rich flavors, tender beans, fresh veggies, and pasta, all simmered to perfection in savory broth.
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
For the Beans and Pasta
- 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup ditalini pasta or small pasta of choice
For the Finishing Touches
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Step 3: Add Herbs and Spices
Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine spices with vegetables.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Sauce and Broth
Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer; cook for about 15 minutes to meld flavors.
Step 5: Mix in Beans
Add drained kidney beans and cannellini beans to the pot. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta Separately
In a separate pot, cook pasta according to package instructions just until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 7: Combine Spinach with Soup
Stir cooked pasta and fresh spinach leaves into the soup. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Serve soup hot garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Enjoy this hearty Italian dish!
How to Serve Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
Serving Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a wonderful way to bring warmth and comfort to your table. This soup pairs well with various options that enhance its rich flavors and make for a complete meal.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked or toasted bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up the delicious broth.
Add a Side Salad
- A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup and adds freshness.
Enjoy with Garlic Bread
- For an extra kick, serve garlic bread alongside your soup for a flavorful addition that everyone will love.
Top with Extra Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic touch that enhances the dish’s appeal.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- Presenting the soup in individual bowls creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties.
How to Perfect Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
Perfecting your Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup can elevate this dish to new heights. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is a hit every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will provide a more vibrant flavor than dried alternatives.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings to find the right balance for your palate.
- Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors, making it even more satisfying.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
- Experiment with Pasta Types: While ditalini is traditional, other small pasta shapes can also work well, so try what you have on hand.
- Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully, making it easy to enjoy later. Just store in airtight containers.
Best Side Dishes for Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.
Bruschetta
Topped with tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a fresh bite that complements the soup nicely.Caprese Salad
A classic Caprese salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides creaminess and acidity alongside your meal.Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and flavor; toss them in olive oil and roast until caramelized.Cheesy Garlic Knots
Soft knots brushed with garlic butter and topped with cheese create a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with soup.Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a hearty side that’s both filling and nutritious.Antipasto Platter
An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses makes for an elegant side that invites sharing.Polenta Cakes
Crispy on the outside and creamy inside, polenta cakes are a delicious alternative that complements the flavors of the soup.Simple Green Beans
Steamed or sautéed green beans seasoned lightly keep things fresh while adding color to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Softer Vegetables: Not cooking the carrots and celery long enough can lead to crunchy bits in your soup. Always sauté these until they’re tender for a smoother texture.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Adding pasta too early can cause it to become mushy. Cook it separately and mix it in just before serving to maintain its perfect bite.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Underseasoning your soup will leave it bland. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional herbs to enhance flavors.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: The broth is the base of your soup, so choose a high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for richer flavor. Homemade is always best if possible.
- Not Letting Flavors Meld: Rushing through the simmering process can diminish the depth of flavor. Allow the soup to simmer adequately to let spices and ingredients blend beautifully.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for optimal storage.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup that might help you while cooking.
What is Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered in a rich broth.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version of Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup.
How can I customize my Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or use different types of beans based on your preference.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Final Thoughts
Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or beans. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Try making it today and enjoy its warmth!
Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup
Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a warm and comforting dish that embodies the essence of Italian home cooking. This delightful soup combines tender beans, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs, simmered in a savory broth to create a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soup is not only nourishing but also versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main course or an appetizer. Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes to make it uniquely yours!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup ditalini pasta or small pasta of choice
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent.
- Add garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until softened.
- Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in tomato sauce and broth; bring to a simmer for 15 minutes.
- Mix in drained kidney beans and cannellini beans; simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Cook pasta separately until al dente; drain.
- Stir cooked pasta and spinach into the soup; cook until spinach wilts.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg