Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

Olive Garden’s Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli is the perfect dish for cozy evenings. This hearty soup offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its comforting warmth and nutritious ingredients, it’s a standout option for any occasion. Plus, this copycat recipe allows you to recreate the beloved restaurant experience in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: A combination of herbs and vegetables brings a delicious depth to each bowl.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with beans and veggies, this soup is both satisfying and healthy.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the pasta, and parents appreciate the wholesome ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you begin. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in ensuring your Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cooking spray
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soup as it retains heat well and allows even cooking.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your prep time.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor.

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Ingredients

For this comforting bowl of Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Pasta

• 1/2 cup ditalini pasta or large ringed pasta

Protein

• 8 oz of sweet Italian turkey sausage

Vegetables

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced

Liquids

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes

Herbs & Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Beans

• 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can of dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Optional Toppings

• Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Spray a large Dutch oven with cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat.
2. Add sweet Italian turkey sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Stir in minced garlic, diced onion, carrots, and celery.
2. Cook while stirring occasionally until tender, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

1. Whisk in chicken broth and crushed tomatoes.
2. Add dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer covered until vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Beans

1. Add uncooked pasta along with both types of beans.
2. Cook until heated through.

With this simple yet flavorful recipe for Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli, you’re sure to impress your family or guests! Enjoy every spoonful!

How to Serve Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli is a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends, here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve warm slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping into the soup. This adds a delightful texture and enhances the overall experience.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the flavors of the soup.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar. The crispness of the salad balances the richness of the Pasta Fagioli beautifully.

Garnished with Cheese

• While optional, adding grated parmesan cheese on top provides a creamy finish that enhances the flavor profile. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re tracking points.

In a Bread Bowl

• For an impressive presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks appealing but also gives you more bread to enjoy!

How to Perfect Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

To make your Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the taste and nutrition of your soup, making it more vibrant and enjoyable.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste as you cook. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for a personalized flavor.
• Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer firmer pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving. This helps prevent overcooking in the broth.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Store Correctly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen over time!

Best Side Dishes for Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some tasty options.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic side that’s easy to prepare; simply spread butter mixed with garlic on slices of bread and toast until golden.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers roasted with olive oil make for a nutritious complement.
3. Caesar Salad: While traditional Caesar salads may use anchovies, opt for a vegetarian version with crisp romaine lettuce and homemade dressing.
4. Caprese Salad: Combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice mixed with herbs create a filling side that pairs nicely with soup.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances well against savory dishes like Pasta Fagioli; serve them simply baked or mashed.
7. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quickly sautéed seasonal vegetables add color and crunch alongside your hearty soup.
8. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides an interesting texture contrast while being light enough not to overshadow the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong pasta: Selecting a pasta that takes longer to cook can lead to mushy results. Stick with ditalini or large ringed pasta for the best texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your broth and vegetables properly can result in bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking your vegetables for too long can make them lose their crunch. Aim for tenderness while still retaining some bite.
• Not letting it simmer: Skipping the simmering step can prevent flavors from melding together. Allow your soup to simmer for at least 10-15 minutes for a richer taste.
• Ignoring storage recommendations: Improper storage can affect the quality of leftovers. Make sure to store in airtight containers to keep your soup fresh.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning into single servings for easy reheating.

Reheating Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions you may have about making Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with any beans you prefer, such as cannellini or black beans, for added variety.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe yields approximately 9 servings, making it perfect for meal prep or family dinners.

What can I add for extra flavor?

For additional flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the turkey sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I customize my Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli?

You can customize by adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli is not only comforting but also nutritious and versatile. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly nights and can easily be tailored with your favorite ingredients. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or spices to create your own unique version!