Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup) is a comforting, hearty dish that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine to your table. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in. It combines simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful soup that delights everyone. Enjoy the delightful taste while knowing it’s packed with nutritious beans and wholesome vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Made with inexpensive ingredients, this soup won’t break the bank.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vegetables and beans, this dish provides essential nutrients for a healthy diet.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main course or side dish; great for any occasion.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a warm, inviting flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pasta e Fagioli effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons and cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and can hold all ingredients comfortably.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables.
• Measuring spoons and cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

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Ingredients

Made with inexpensive, wholesome ingredients and packed with rich flavor, this authentic Pasta e Fagioli is a celebration of traditional Italian warmth and simplicity.

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 ounces diced turkey strips
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• 2 carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 2 stalks celery (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary (or 3/4 teaspoon dried)
• 1 parmesan rind (optional)

For the Liquid Components

• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 quart reduced sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Beans and Pasta

• 2 cans (15.5 oz) reduced sodium cannellini or borlotti beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 ½ cups ditalini pasta or other small pasta

For Serving

• Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and olive oil

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

Step 1: Cook the Turkey

Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
1. Add the turkey strips and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned.
2. Allow it to render most of its fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot.
1. Cook while stirring occasionally until softened, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add garlic and rosemary; cook an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the parmesan rind if using, along with:
– Crushed tomatoes
– Broth
– Water
– Salt
– Black pepper

Step 4: Prepare Bean Paste

1. Place about a quarter cup of beans in a bowl with some cooking liquid.
2. Mash with a fork to form a paste then add it to the pot along with remaining whole beans.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil before reducing heat to simmer.
1. Simmer for 10-15 minutes before adding pasta.
2. Cover the pot and cook another 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
1. Add more water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
2. Serve hot topped with grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

Enjoy your delicious Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

Serving Pasta e Fagioli is all about enhancing its comforting flavors while making it visually appealing. This hearty soup is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, and there are several ways to elevate the experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with basil or parsley: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Add a drizzle of olive oil: A touch of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with crusty Italian bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up every last drop.
• Include garlic bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the soup beautifully.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve over arugula or spinach: The slight bitterness of greens balances the soup’s flavors.
• Top with microgreens: For an elegant touch, add some crunchy microgreens as a garnish.

With Cheese

• Offer grated Parmigiano-Reggiano: A sprinkle of this cheese adds depth and creaminess.
• Pair with mozzarella balls: Little bites of fresh mozzarella can create a delightful texture contrast.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

To achieve the best Pasta e Fagioli, follow these simple tips. They will help you enhance flavors and ensure the perfect texture.

• Use quality broth: Start with homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for richer flavor.
• Let it simmer longer: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances the depth of flavors, so take your time.
• Adjust consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth or water gradually as it cooks.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables: Adding veggies like zucchini or kale can boost nutrition and freshness.
• Experiment with spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick if desired.
• Make it ahead of time: Soups often taste better the next day, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

Complement your Pasta e Fagioli with these delicious side dishes that enhance the meal experience. Each option pairs well with the rich flavors of this classic soup.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze bring refreshing acidity.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add texture and nutrients to your meal.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a fresh contrast to the soup.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette cleanses the palate between bites.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta provides a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with hearty soups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your soup.

• Skipping the aromatics: Failing to properly sauté the onion, garlic, and herbs can lead to a bland soup. Always take the time to cook these ingredients until they are fragrant.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta for too long can result in mushy noodles. Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the residual heat.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: It’s important to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. Don’t wait until the end; flavors develop as your soup simmers.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can ruin your entire dish. Opt for a good-quality reduced sodium chicken or vegetable broth for optimal flavor.
• Omitting bean preparation: Not mashing some beans into a paste leads to less creaminess in your soup. Take a moment to mash a portion before adding them back into the pot.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months for best results.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil; heat for about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pasta e Fagioli.

What is Pasta e Fagioli?

Pasta e Fagioli is an Italian soup made with pasta and beans, typically flavored with vegetables and aromatic herbs. It’s hearty and comforting.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like spinach or kale, or even switch out the type of beans used based on your preference.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Pasta e Fagioli, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any meat products.

Is Pasta e Fagioli suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just make sure to store pasta separately if you plan on freezing portions.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While ditalini is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape that cooks quickly and complements the dish.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli is not just a delicious recipe; it’s also versatile and customizable. Whether you stick closely to tradition or add your unique twist, this soup embodies warmth and comfort. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, we encourage you to give this delightful dish a try!