Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful comfort food that combines healthy carbs with a burst of flavors. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep throughout the week. With its rich taste and nutritious ingredients, it stands out as a favorite among soup lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Base: The combination of herbs and spices creates a robust flavor profile that warms the soul.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread or breadsticks for a complete meal.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup is both filling and healthy.
- Easily Adaptable: Customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup a breeze. Gather these essential items before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions and garlic while providing enough space to add all ingredients comfortably.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent flavor in every batch.
- Cutting board: Offers a safe surface for chopping vegetables, making prep quick and easy.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
Pasta and Beans
- 6 ounces ditalini pasta (- uncooked – 6 ounces by weight and 1 1/2 cups by measurement)
- 15 ounces cannellini beans (- canned and drained)
- 15 ounces kidney beans (- canned and drained)
Vegetables
- 1 cup white onion (- diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (- chopped finely)
- 1 1/2 cups carrots (- chopped small, about 2 carrots)
- 1/2 cup celery (- chopped)
Broth and Sauces
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 15 ounces tomatoes (- diced and canned or fresh tomatoes to measure that amount)
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black ground pepper
How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add about 3 tablespoons of water to a large skillet. Sauté the diced onions for about 10 minutes until they are soft. Then add the finely chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
To the skillet, add the vegetable broth along with all tomato ingredients (diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste), chopped carrots, celery, oregano, basil, and cumin. Stir well to combine everything.
Step 3: Bring to Boil
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the uncooked ditalini pasta along with both types of beans. Stir gently.
Step 4: Cook Soup
Reduce heat to medium-high and cook the soup for about 6 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for al dente pasta.
Step 5: Season
After cooking, add salt and black ground pepper. Stir well before tasting. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot with crusty bread or breadsticks for a delightful meal experience. Enjoy your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup!
How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful experience that allows you to enjoy its rich flavors fully. Here are some suggestions to enhance your serving style.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. It adds texture and complements the flavors beautifully.
Use Fresh Herbs as Garnish
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil on top of each bowl before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.
Add a Splash of Olive Oil
- Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the taste and gives the soup a rich finish.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- Individual Bowls: Presenting the soup in individual bowls makes it feel more special and inviting for guests.
Accompany with Salad
- Mixed Green Salad: A side salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Make it a Meal
- Complete Meal: Serve the soup alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a fulfilling meal option that packs protein.
How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup
To make sure your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.
Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality broth to elevate the flavor of your soup.
Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences; seasoning is key!
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente during the final cooking phase to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10 minutes after cooking can meld the flavors together beautifully.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Pairing your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:
Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread is an excellent choice that balances well with the soup’s flavors.
Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds a light touch that contrasts nicely with the rich soup.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted seasonal vegetables provides a warm, savory addition that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Cheesy Flatbread: Soft flatbread topped with melted cheese makes for a delightful pairing, perfect for dipping into your soup.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables offer a hearty option that complements the soup’s texture.
Zucchini Fritters: Crispy zucchini fritters provide a crunchy contrast while adding an extra serving of veggies to your meal.
Caesar Salad (without Anchovies): A classic Caesar salad without anchovies gives you crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing, making it a perfect match.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry featuring seasonal veggies adds color and nutrition alongside your comforting soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using the wrong pasta: Ditalini is key for this soup. Substituting it with a larger pasta can alter the texture and balance of flavors.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing onions too long can lead to a mushy texture. Cook them just until they’re tender and fragrant.
- Skipping the seasoning: Proper seasoning is essential for depth of flavor. Don’t skip the salt, pepper, and herbs; they bring the dish to life.
- Not tasting as you go: Adjusting flavors is important. Always taste your soup before serving to ensure it meets your preference.
- Ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can affect flavor and texture. Make sure to follow guidelines for refrigerating or freezing leftovers.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The soup will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup.
What is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian bean and pasta soup that combines fresh vegetables and flavorful herbs in a rich broth.
Can I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup vegan?
Yes! This recipe is already plant-based, using vegetable broth and avoiding any animal-derived ingredients.
How long does it take to make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
The total time required is about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it perfect for a quick meal.
What can I serve with Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
This soup pairs nicely with crusty bread or breadsticks for dipping, adding extra texture to your meal.
Final Thoughts
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding more vegetables or changing the types of beans based on your taste. This delicious recipe is sure to be a hit at your table, so give it a try today!
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup, a delightful blend of nutritious ingredients that promises to satisfy both your taste buds and your hunger. This hearty Italian bean and pasta soup features tender ditalini pasta, vibrant vegetables, and a rich vegetable broth infused with aromatic herbs. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this dish is easy to whip up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy it on its own or serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete meal experience. Dive into a bowl of this flavorful soup and savor the nourishing goodness.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 6 ounces ditalini pasta
- 15 ounces cannellini beans
- 15 ounces kidney beans
- 1 cup white onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped finely
- 1 1/2 cups carrots, chopped small
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black ground pepper
Instructions
- In a large skillet, sauté diced onions in 3 tablespoons of water for about 10 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, carrots, celery, oregano, basil, and cumin. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Add ditalini pasta and both types of beans. Stir gently.
- Reduce heat to medium-high and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg