Easy Pasta Fagioli

Typical Italian hearty winter fare done easy! Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and flavorful dish that warms the soul. This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, gatherings with friends, or as a quick weeknight meal. Its rich blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta makes it satisfying and nutritious, while being simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just one hour, you can have this delicious soup ready to serve in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh vegetables and seasonings creates a taste that is both hearty and delightful.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a starter. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with protein from cannellini beans and fiber-rich vegetables, this dish is both filling and healthy.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Creating this Easy Pasta Fagioli requires just a few essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for sautéing and simmering ingredients together without overflow.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables, making prep work easier.
• Measuring spoons: Helps you accurately measure ingredients, ensuring the best flavor balance in your soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 carrots diced
• 2 stalks celery diced
• 2 thin slices onion diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic chopped
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 (14 ounce) cans chicken broth
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves

For the Pasta and Beans

• 2 (15 ounce) cans cannellini beans drained and rinsed
• 3 cups ditalini pasta

How to Make Easy Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté until they become soft.
3. Stir in the chopped garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Soup Base

1. Add the tomato sauce and chicken broth to the vegetable mixture.
2. Season with freshly ground black pepper, dried parsley, and dried basil.
3. Bring everything to a gentle simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. While the soup simmers, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Add the ditalini pasta and cook for approximately 8 minutes or until al dente; then drain.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the drained cannellini beans to your simmering soup base.
2. Allow it to simmer for an additional few minutes for flavors to meld together.
3. Finally, stir in the cooked pasta into the sauce and bean mixture before serving.

Serve hot in bowls with optional toppings like grated cheese, alongside crusty bread or salad for an authentic Italian experience! Enjoy your delightful bowl of Easy Pasta Fagioli!

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Grated Cheese

• Top each bowl with freshly grated Romano or parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the rich soup. A good baguette or ciabatta works wonderfully.

Fresh Salad

• Pair with a refreshing green salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the dish nicely.

Olive Oil Drizzle

• Finish each bowl with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for added richness and depth.

Garlic Bread

• Offer garlic bread as a side for a delightful crunch and flavor. Simply toast bread with garlic butter until golden brown.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli

Making Easy Pasta Fagioli is straightforward, but these tips can enhance your dish even more.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables provide better flavor compared to canned ones.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving to ensure balanced flavors.
• Simmer longer: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors; just be cautious not to overcook the pasta.
• Add greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale towards the end for added nutrition and color.
• Customize beans: Feel free to swap cannellini beans with other types like kidney beans for variety.
• Store properly: If making ahead, store pasta separately from the soup to prevent it from getting mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli

To create a complete meal around Easy Pasta Fagioli, consider these delightful side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing topped with croutons adds crunch and freshness.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness.

3. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction provide a refreshing contrast.

4. Garlic Parmesan Knots
   Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with parmesan make for an irresistible treat.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, vegetables, and herbs offer a hearty option alongside your soup.

6. Antipasto Platter
   A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, and cheeses gives guests variety and flavor before the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Easy Pasta Fagioli, certain common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables first can lead to a bland flavor. Always start by cooking your carrots, celery, and onions in olive oil until soft.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente, which typically takes about 8 minutes.
• Ignoring seasonings: Forgetting to add black pepper and dried herbs can result in a flat taste. Season well and adjust to your preference.
• Using canned beans without rinsing: Not rinsing cannellini beans can leave excess sodium and starch. Be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to your dish.
• Not letting it simmer enough: A brief simmer may not bring out the full flavors. Allow your soup to simmer for at least 20 minutes for better taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Easy Pasta Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and cover; heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a simple Italian soup made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s hearty and perfect for colder weather.

Can I customize Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or use another type of bean if desired. Adjust herbs based on what you have on hand for unique flavors.

How do I store leftovers of Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I make Easy Pasta Fagioli ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day ahead; just reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta Fagioli is not only warm and comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!