Pasta Fagioli Soup

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent. This will help develop a flavorful base for the soup.

Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Beans Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes), letting them cook for about 3-5 minutes. The tomatoes will soften and blend into the soup base, adding richness to the broth.

Next, add the cannellini beans (or other beans), including their juices, to the pot. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir in the Italian seasoning, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Add the pasta to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Add Greens (Optional) Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach or kale (if using). The greens will wilt down and add a nice pop of color and extra nutrition to the soup.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves from the soup before serving.

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for extra flavor and garnish.

Tips for Making the Best Pasta Fagioli Soup:

• Use homemade broth: If you have time, making your own broth can take this soup to the next level. Homemade broth adds a depth of flavor that store-bought versions may lack.
• Customize the beans: While cannellini beans are the classic choice, you can experiment with other beans such as kidney beans, great northern beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor.
• Add meat for extra richness: If you like a heartier version, consider adding ground beef, Italian sausage, or ham to the soup. Brown the meat with the vegetables in the first step for added flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: This soup is easily made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skipping any meat additions.
• Frozen vegetables: If you don’t have fresh carrots, celery, or spinach on hand, you can use frozen vegetables as a convenient alternative.

Why You’ll Love Pasta Fagioli Soup:

1. Comforting and Hearty: This soup is the perfect dish for a cold winter day. It’s warm, filling, and offers a comforting bowl of goodness.
2. Packed with Nutrients: With the addition of beans, vegetables, and greens, Pasta Fagioli Soup is a nutritious meal packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
3. Easily Customizable: Whether you prefer a meatless version or want to load it up with sausage or extra veggies, this recipe is incredibly adaptable to suit your tastes.
4. Quick and Easy: Despite its rich, complex flavor, this soup is simple to make and doesn’t require hours of preparation. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner option for busy families.

Conclusion:

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s hearty, nutritious, and packed with comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a delicious homemade soup that’s perfect for cozy nights in. So, grab your pot and get ready to make a batch of this comforting and timeless dish!