Pasta e Fagioli soup

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by Olivia

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Pasta e Fagioli soup

This hearty Pasta e Fagioli soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it can be adapted to suit your taste or utilize leftover ingredients from your fridge. Whether you’re having a quiet night in or hosting a gathering, this soup is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

Pasta e Fagioli soup
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup quickly.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
  • Nutritious and Filling: This soup is loaded with beans and vegetables, offering a hearty meal that satisfies.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
  • Family-Friendly: Kids love the pasta and beans, making it a hit for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Pasta e Fagioli soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large stock pot: Ideal for making soups, allows for ample space to cook all ingredients evenly.
  • Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, ensuring even pieces for better cooking.
  • Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot, it helps combine flavors seamlessly.
Pasta

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 2 whole carrots (chopped)
  • 2 celery stalks (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp garlic (minced)

Beans and Tomatoes

  • 1 can kidney beans (drained)
  • 1 can cannelloni beans, (white) (drained)
  • 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
  • 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes

Broth and Seasonings

  • 6 cups broth (chicken OR vegetable)
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Pasta and Liquid

  • 4 cups water
  • 1-2 cups dry pasta (uncooked)

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable or olive oil over medium heat in a large stock pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, chopped celery, minced garlic, and chopped carrots to the pot. Sauté these in the oil for about 4-5 minutes until the onions begin to turn translucent.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add your chicken or vegetable broth to the pot along with tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, drained beans, water, and spices. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and allow it to simmer for 15 minutes so that all flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Finally, add your uncooked pasta into the soup. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until you reach your desired pasta consistency.

Enjoy this delicious Pasta e Fagioli soup as a warming meal any day of the week!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli soup

Pasta e Fagioli soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Bread

  • Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping into the soup.
  • Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful twist and complements the soup’s richness perfectly.

Topped with Cheese

  • Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan on top for a nutty flavor.
  • Mozzarella: Add shredded mozzarella for a melty, gooey texture.

Garnished with Herbs

  • Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.
  • Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic finish.

Accompanied by Salad

  • Mixed Green Salad: A light salad offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
  • Caprese Salad: This tomato and mozzarella salad pairs beautifully with the Italian flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli soup

To make the best Pasta e Fagioli soup, consider these tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

  • Bold Flavors: Use quality broth (chicken or vegetable) to enrich the taste of your soup.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible; they add more flavor than frozen or canned ones.
  • Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
  • Adjust Consistency: Feel free to add more water if you prefer a thinner soup or let it cook longer if you like it thicker.
  • Pasta Type Choice: Choose small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells, which work well in this hearty dish.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli soup

Pairing side dishes with Pasta e Fagioli soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

  1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil brings a fresh touch.
  2. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheese, and cured meats provides variety and flavor.
  3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing balances the richness of the soup.
  4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition.
  5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with grains and vegetables offer a hearty complement.
  6. Focaccia Bread: This soft Italian flatbread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta e Fagioli soup can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes that could ruin the dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Bold choice of oil: Using too much oil can make the soup greasy. Stick to 1/4 cup for the right balance.
  • Bold timing on vegetables: Overcooking the vegetables can lead to mushy textures. Sauté until just tender for the best results.
  • Bold broth selection: Skipping a good quality broth can result in bland soup. Always use flavorful chicken or vegetable broth.
  • Bold pasta cooking: Adding pasta too early can make it overly soft. Wait until the soup is nearly done to maintain texture.
  • Bold seasoning oversight: Forgetting spices can dull your soup’s flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
Pasta

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  • Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli soup

  • Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating later.
  • Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli soup

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering with a lid or plastic wrap, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta e Fagioli soup?

Pasta e Fagioli soup is a classic Italian dish made with pasta and beans, often enriched with vegetables and herbs.

How do I customize my Pasta e Fagioli soup?

You can add different vegetables, switch up the beans, or use various types of pasta based on your preference.

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based additions for a delicious vegetarian version.

What type of pasta works best for Pasta e Fagioli soup?

Short pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells are ideal because they mix well with the beans and broth.

How long does it take to make Pasta e Fagioli soup?

The total time is about 30 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of beans. Give it a try today, and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade goodness!

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

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Pasta e Fagioli soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Description

Pasta e Fagioli soup is a delightful and hearty Italian dish that brings comfort to any occasion. This delicious soup combines tender pasta, protein-packed beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a savory broth, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy night in or when entertaining guests, this versatile recipe allows you to use up leftover ingredients while delivering rich flavors that everyone will love.


Ingredients

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  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 2 whole carrots (chopped)
  • 2 celery stalks (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp garlic (minced)
  • 1 can kidney beans (drained)
  • 1 can cannelloni beans (drained)
  • 1 can tomato sauce
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 4 cups water
  • 12 cups dry pasta (uncooked)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable or olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the diced onion, chopped celery, minced garlic, and chopped carrots for about 4-5 minutes until onions are translucent.
  3. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, drained beans, water, and spices. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Add uncooked pasta and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until pasta reaches desired tenderness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups or 375g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 12g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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