Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty Italian dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This flavorful soup, featuring pasta and beans, is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The unique flavors come alive with a secret ingredient that elevates the taste, making it a go-to recipe for a cozy night in. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup on the table in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich beans, this soup is both filling and healthy.
• Versatile Flavor: The addition of our secret flavor booster enhances the taste, making it delightful for everyone.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting bowl of goodness.
• Make-Ahead Option: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Immersion blender
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all the ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Immersion blender: Perfect for achieving the desired texture without transferring hot soup to a blender.
• Chef’s knife: A good quality knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1/2 cup olive oil (divided; 1/4 cup for cooking, 1/4 cup reserved for serving)
• 1 cup onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup carrot (diced)
• 1 cup celery (diced)
• 1 cup potato (diced)
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt (to be sprinkled in bit by bit during each cooking step)

For the Flavor Boost

• 15 ounces cannellini beans (drained)
• 14.5 ounces canned tomatoes (diced, drained)
• 1 quart cold water
• 1 quart beef broth
• Parmesan rind

For Serving

• 8 ounces pasta (ditallini or elbow macaroni)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated; 1/4 cup for cooking and 3/4 cup reserved for serving)

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Sprinkle with salt as they cook to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add diced carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Sauté for about 10 minutes until softened, seasoning with salt again.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans, Cold Water, Broth, Salt, and Pepper

Toss in the diced tomatoes, drained beans, cold water, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer with Parmesan Rind

Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat to low. Add a Parmesan rind and simmer for 45-60 minutes to infuse flavor.

Step 5: Blend (Kind Of)

Remove the Parmesan rind from the soup. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup until desired texture is reached.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta in the Soup

Return the soup to a boil. Add uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Cook for about 10 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Turn off heat after pasta is cooked. Stir in butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle with olive oil and top with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano as desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Homemade Garlic Breadsticks

• Pair this soup with warm, homemade garlic breadsticks for a delicious combination. The breadsticks are perfect for dipping!

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the flavors of the soup. Simply sprinkle them on top before serving for an aromatic touch.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the richness of the soup. This simple addition brings out the flavors beautifully.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A light, crisp salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette.

With Grated Cheese

• Serve your Pasta e Fagioli Soup with extra grated cheese on top. It adds a creamy texture and enhances the savory flavor profile.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Creating the ideal Pasta e Fagioli Soup requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some ways to ensure your soup is perfectly delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, making it more vibrant and tasty.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust salt and pepper to achieve perfect seasoning balance.
• Choose Quality Broth – A rich broth will deepen the flavor of your soup, so opt for homemade or a high-quality store-bought option.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta – Add pasta towards the end of cooking to avoid mushiness. It should be al dente when served.
• Consider Texture – Use an immersion blender to partially blend your soup for a creamy consistency while keeping some beans whole for texture.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for a while after cooking helps meld flavors together, making it even tastier when served later.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Completing your meal with delicious side dishes can enhance the enjoyment of Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing that pairs well with the hearty soup.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic adds freshness and vibrant flavor contrasts.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables make for a healthy side that complements the flavors of your soup beautifully.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – A gooey grilled cheese sandwich is a comforting companion that balances well with the warmth of the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa add bulk and nutrition while being visually appealing on the plate.
6. Antipasto Platter – An antipasto platter featuring olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses provides variety and makes for an inviting presentation.
7. Italian Flatbread – Soft Italian flatbread is perfect for dipping into your savory soup, making each bite satisfying.
8. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy zucchini fritters offer a delightful texture contrast while being light enough not to overshadow the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli Soup, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious result.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the onions and garlic can lead to a flat flavor. Always start by cooking these aromatics in olive oil to build a flavorful base.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Sauté just until softened for the best texture and taste.

• Using the Wrong Pasta Shape: Using large pasta shapes can alter the soup’s consistency. Opt for small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni for better integration.

• Adding All Ingredients at Once: Dumping everything in at once may lead to uneven cooking. Follow the steps carefully to layer flavors properly.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking can result in bland soup. Add salt bit by bit as per each step for balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta e Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding water if it needs thinning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

What is Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a traditional Italian dish that combines pasta and beans in a hearty broth, often enhanced with vegetables and seasonings.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables, swap out beans, or use various pasta shapes based on your preferences.

How do I make my Pasta e Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Simply replace beef broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat additions while maintaining all other ingredients.

What are some good side dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Serve it with homemade garlic breadsticks or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for using pantry staples and can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty meal that your family will love!

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Pasta e Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a classic Italian dish that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. This hearty soup combines tender pasta and nutritious beans in a rich, flavorful broth, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in. With vibrant vegetables and a secret flavor enhancer, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting bowl of goodness. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something both delicious and nourishing. Whether served with homemade garlic breadsticks or topped with fresh herbs, this Pasta e Fagioli Soup will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup olive oil (divided; 1/4 cup for cooking, 1/4 cup reserved for serving)
• 1 cup onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup carrot (diced)
• 1 cup celery (diced)
• 1 cup potato (diced)
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt (to be sprinkled in bit by bit during each cooking step)
• 15 ounces cannellini beans (drained)
• 14.5 ounces canned tomatoes (diced, drained)
• 1 quart cold water
• 1 quart beef broth
• 8 ounces pasta (ditallini or elbow macaroni)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup for cooking and 3/4 cup reserved for serving)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent, seasoning with salt.
2. Add diced carrots, celery, and potato; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in drained cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, cold water, beef broth, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and add a Parmesan rind. Simmer for 45-60 minutes.
5. Remove the rind and blend partially with an immersion blender for desired texture.
6. Boil soup again and add uncooked pasta; cook for about 10 minutes until al dente.
7. Off the heat, stir in butter and grated Parmesan until melted.
8. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and more cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing and Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 5mg