Easy Pasta Fagioli

Typical Italian hearty winter fare done easy! Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or meal prep for the week. This recipe showcases rich flavors while being simple to prepare, making it a beloved option for both novice and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Nutritious: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup is a great source of protein and fiber.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Flavorful: The combination of herbs and spices creates a savory depth that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Hearty: Filled with pasta and beans, this dish is filling enough to warm you up during winter nights.

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Pasta Fagioli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large saucepan
• A large pot
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup base without overflow.
• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta and ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.
• Sharp knife: Allows for precise cuts which enhance the cooking experience.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 carrot diced
• 2 stalk celery diced
• 2 thin slice onion diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic chopped
• 1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
• 2 14 ounce chicken broth
• freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves

For the Pasta and Beans

• 2 15 ounce cannellini beans drained and rinsed
• 3 cups ditalini pasta

How to Make Easy Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add diced carrots, celery, and onions; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in chopped garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
4. Add tomato sauce, chicken broth, freshly ground black pepper, parsley, and basil; bring to a simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. In a separate large pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Add ditalini pasta to the boiling water; cook for about 8 minutes or until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta once cooked.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add drained cannellini beans to the simmering soup base; let it cook for a few more minutes.
2. Once the pasta is done draining, stir it into the soup mixture until well combined.

Now you have a steaming bowl of Easy Pasta Fagioli ready to be enjoyed! Serve with crusty bread for dipping or alongside your favorite salad.

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli

Serving Easy Pasta Fagioli can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

With Grated Cheese

• Romano or Parmesan: Top each bowl with freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese for a rich flavor boost.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve with slices of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up the flavors.

Fresh Salad on the Side

• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the soup’s heartiness beautifully.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the taste and adds a touch of brightness to each serving.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil or Parsley: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic finish that adds freshness to each bowl.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli

To make your Easy Pasta Fagioli even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor. Opt for vibrant carrots and celery for a more robust taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper levels based on your preference for the best flavor profile.
• Experiment with Broths: Try different broths like vegetable broth for a lighter version or add depth with homemade chicken broth.
• Add More Vegetables: Increase nutrition by adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini during cooking.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking ditalini pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup, ensuring an ideal texture.
• Store Properly: If making ahead, store pasta separately from the soup to maintain texture when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli

Pair your Easy Pasta Fagioli with these delightful side dishes for a complete meal:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color, flavor, and nutrition to your meal.
3. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad combines ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice create a filling and nutritious pairing.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes a light yet flavorful accompaniment.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables offers variety and enhances the Italian theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe like Easy Pasta Fagioli. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring the broth: Using low-quality or expired broth can ruin the flavor. Always use fresh chicken broth for a rich taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking ditalini pasta too long can make it mushy. Cook just until al dente for the best texture.
• Skipping seasoning: Not adding enough herbs and spices will lead to bland soup. Make sure to measure out your parsley and basil as instructed.
• Neglecting to drain beans: Not rinsing cannellini beans can leave a gritty texture. Always drain and rinse them well before adding to your dish.
• Cooking at high heat: Sautéing vegetables over high heat can burn them. Stick to medium heat for even cooking without burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Pasta Fagioli.

Can I make Easy Pasta Fagioli ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I add to Easy Pasta Fagioli for extra flavor?

Consider adding diced bell peppers or zucchini for more veggies, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Is Easy Pasta Fagioli healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with fiber from the beans and loaded with vegetables, making it a nutritious option.

Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?

While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta you prefer, such as elbows or shells.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a delightful dish that warms the soul. Its hearty ingredients make it perfect for chilly nights, while its versatility allows for customization based on what you have on hand. Try adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish uniquely yours!

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Easy Pasta Fagioli

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Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting Italian-inspired soup that warms you from the inside out. This delightful dish combines tender pasta, hearty cannellini beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a savory broth, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, this easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, ensuring you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete dining experience that everyone will love!

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 carrot diced
• 2 stalk celery diced
• 2 thin slice onion diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic chopped
• 1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
• 2 14 ounce chicken broth
• freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves
• 2 15 ounce cannellini beans drained and rinsed
• 3 cups ditalini pasta

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion; sauté until soft. Stir in chopped garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
2. Add tomato sauce, chicken broth, black pepper, parsley, and basil; bring to a simmer for about 20 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, boil lightly salted water and cook ditalini pasta until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
4. Stir drained cannellini beans into the simmering soup base and cook for an additional few minutes.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the soup mixture until well blended.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 0mg