Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

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by Olivia

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Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

This Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe brings the warmth of Italian cuisine to your table with its rich flavors and comforting texture. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or gatherings, this soup is not only easy to make but also budget-friendly. Packed with beans, vegetables, and delightful herbs, it’s a meal that satisfies both the soul and the palate.

Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and Filling: This soup combines pasta and beans, making it a substantial dish that keeps you satisfied.
  • Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
  • Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
  • Healthy Option: Packed with fiber and nutrients from beans and veggies, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
  • Great for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking enjoyable and efficient. Gather these essentials before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large pot: Ideal for cooking the entire batch of soup without spillage.
  • Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and quick chopping of vegetables.
  • Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help maintain consistency in flavor.
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Ingredients

To create this delicious Pasta Fagioli Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, quartered and sliced

For Flavor and Texture

  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 dried bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Cooking Liquid

  • 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 cup water

For Pasta Addition

  • 1 cup dry ditalini pasta

How to Make Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
– Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until soft and fragrant for about 5–6 minutes.

Step 2: Add Beans and Seasonings

Add cannellini beans, tomato sauce, bay leaf, basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
– Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and water.
– Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta once boiling.
– Reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until pasta is al dente for about 6–7 minutes. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Adjust seasoning if needed.
– Serve hot with optional grated Parmesan cheese on top alongside crusty bread.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Best Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Serving your Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe can elevate the dining experience, making it not just a meal but a delightful occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance this comforting dish.

With Grated Cheese

  • Top each bowl with freshly grated cheese, such as Parmesan or Pecorino, to add a rich flavor and creamy texture.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

  • Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. This combination makes for a satisfying experience and helps soak up the delicious broth.

With Fresh Herbs

  • Garnish your soup with chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.

Served in Bread Bowls

  • For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks appealing but also provides extra bread to enjoy with the soup.

Paired with Salad

  • A light side salad adds freshness to the meal. Consider a simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and lemon for balance.

With Olive Oil Drizzle

  • A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top right before serving enhances the flavors and adds a touch of elegance.

How to Perfect Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

To truly master the Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, consider these helpful tips that will make your soup even more enjoyable.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your soup, making it more vibrant.

  • Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference for maximum flavor.

  • Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, consider cooking pasta separately and adding it just before serving. This prevents overcooking in the soup.

  • Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit overnight in the fridge to allow flavors to meld.

  • Experiment with Beans: While cannellini beans are traditional, feel free to substitute other beans like kidney or pinto beans for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

  1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last drop of soup.

  2. Caprese Salad: A fresh Caprese salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provides a refreshing contrast.

  3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the soup’s flavors.

  4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side that pairs nicely with the hearty soup.

  5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates an ideal appetizer that matches Italian flavors.

  6. Crispy Kale Chips: These provide a healthy crunch and can be seasoned simply with salt for an easy side option.

  7. Stuffed Peppers: Baked peppers filled with grains or quinoa create an appealing dish that complements pasta fagioli well.

  8. Simple Green Beans: Steamed green beans drizzled with olive oil are easy to prepare and add a delightful crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes you should watch out for.

  • Skipping the Sautéing Step: This step enhances the flavors of your soup. Always sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until soft to build a flavorful base.
  • Overcooking the Pasta: Ditalini pasta should be cooked al dente. Overcooking will lead to mushy pasta, so check for doneness around the 6–7 minute mark.
  • Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting your soup and adjusting seasoning is crucial. Don’t forget to taste before serving to ensure balanced flavors.
  • Using High-Sodium Broth: Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth to keep your soup healthy and flavorful. High sodium can overwhelm the dish.
  • Forgetting to Remove the Bay Leaf: The bay leaf adds flavor but should be removed before serving. Leaving it in can result in an unpleasant texture.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
  • It can last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

  • Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
  • Store it in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20–30 minutes or until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
  • Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5–10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! This Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients.

What type of pasta works best?

Ditalini is traditional, but you can also use small shells or elbow macaroni if preferred.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for more nutrition. You can also alter herbs based on your preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, simply use gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

This Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe offers comfort and warmth in every bowl. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite beans and vegetables. We encourage you to try this delicious recipe today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Best Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Warm up your evenings with this comforting Best Pasta Fagioli Soup. Bursting with rich Italian flavors, this soup is a delightful blend of tender pasta and hearty beans, all simmered in a savory vegetable broth. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s not only easy to make but also budget-friendly. Each bowl is filled with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, ensuring a satisfying dish that nourishes both body and soul. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices to create a unique version that suits your taste. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic recipe as it fills your kitchen with inviting aromas.


Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, quartered and sliced
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
  • 1 dried bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until softened (about 5–6 minutes).
  2. Stir in the cannellini beans, tomato sauce, bay leaf, basil, parsley, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and water; bring to a boil.
  4. Add ditalini pasta; reduce heat to simmer for about 6–7 minutes until pasta is al dente.
  5. Remove the bay leaf before serving hot. Optionally top with grated cheese.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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