Pasta Fagioli That’s Bound to Be a Hit – Page 2

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir to combine.

Step 3: Add Broth and Beans

Pour in the broth, followed by the cannellini beans. Stir in the basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once the soup is simmering, add the pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)

If you’re adding spinach or kale, stir it into the soup once the pasta is cooked. Allow the greens to wilt into the soup, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls, and if desired, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and color.

Tips for the Best Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Texture: For best results, choose a small pasta shape like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells. Avoid pasta that will overcook or get too mushy.
Use Homemade Broth: If you have time, homemade broth will add a deeper flavor to your soup. But low-sodium store-bought broth works just fine.
Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. It pairs beautifully with the beans and tomatoes.
Extra Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked Italian sausage or pancetta. Simply brown the meat before adding the vegetables in step one.
Texture Variations: For a creamier soup, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or blend part of the soup before adding the pasta. This will give the broth a thicker, creamier texture.
Flavor Enhancements: Try adding a Parmesan rind during cooking for an extra layer of flavor. Just be sure to remove it before serving.

Serving Suggestions

With Crusty Bread: Pasta Fagioli is perfect when paired with a thick slice of crusty Italian bread or a garlic breadstick for dipping into the flavorful broth.
Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Grilled Cheese: For an extra comfort food touch, serve this soup alongside a classic grilled cheese sandwich—a perfect combination!

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers: Pasta Fagioli keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Since the pasta may absorb a lot of liquid while frozen, it’s a good idea to cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup when reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the soup over low heat on the stove. If it’s too thick, add a bit of water or broth to thin it out.

Why This Recipe Works

Pasta Fagioli is a versatile, satisfying dish that packs in so much flavor with just a few simple ingredients. The creamy beans, tender pasta, and savory broth come together to create a comforting, delicious soup that will leave you full and content. It’s the perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence.

With a range of variations to suit your tastes—whether you prefer it more vegetable-heavy, spicy, or with extra protein—this recipe is adaptable to fit any preference. Plus, it’s easy to make and budget-friendly, making it a great option for families, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.

The Bottom Line

Pasta Fagioli is a delicious, hearty soup that brings comfort in every spoonful. Full of flavor, texture, and nutritious ingredients, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether served on its own or with a side of crusty bread, this classic Italian soup is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of homemade Pasta Fagioli that’s bound to impress everyone around the table.

←Previous Next→