Pasta Fagioli, which translates to “pasta and beans,” is a classic Italian soup that’s a true comfort food staple. This simple yet satisfying dish is packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of pasta, beans, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It’s a perfect meal for a chilly evening, a quick weeknight dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. This recipe focuses on creating an easy pasta fagioli experience, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. We’ll walk you through every step, ensuring a delicious and authentic result every time.
This recipe is designed for simplicity without sacrificing flavor. We’ll use readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques to create a pasta fagioli that tastes like it simmered all day, even if it comes together in under an hour. The beauty of pasta fagioli lies in its versatility; feel free to adapt it to your preferences. Want more vegetables? Add them! Prefer a spicier kick? Incorporate some red pepper flakes. This is your culinary canvas, and we’re here to guide you to a delicious masterpiece.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s get you ready for success. This recipe will show you how to make the best easy pasta fagioli. Get ready for a flavorful journey into the heart of Italian cooking.
Here’s a suggested image prompt for generating an enticing image for this recipe:
“A beautifully styled photograph of a steaming bowl of pasta fagioli soup. The soup is thick and rich, with visible pasta, beans, and vegetables. The lighting is warm and inviting, highlighting the textures and colors of the ingredients. A sprig of fresh parsley garnishes the top. In the background, there’s a rustic wooden table with a crusty loaf of bread and a glass of red wine. The overall aesthetic is cozy and inviting, suggesting a comforting and delicious meal.”
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate)
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This easy pasta fagioli recipe is a balanced meal, providing a good source of fiber, protein, and carbohydrates.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious and easy pasta fagioli recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Carrots, chopped | 2 medium |
| Celery, chopped | 2 stalks |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Crushed Tomatoes | 28 ounces (1 large can) |
| Vegetable Broth | 6 cups |
| Cannellini Beans (or other white beans), rinsed and drained | 2 (15-ounce) cans |
| Small Pasta (Ditalini, elbow macaroni, or other small pasta) | 1 cup |
| Bay Leaf | 1 |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese (for serving, optional) | To taste |
Cooking Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans (drained and rinsed), bay leaf, oregano, and basil.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be. This is a key step in making a truly delicious easy pasta fagioli.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta to the soup during the last 10-12 minutes of cooking time. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, or until al dente. Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the easy pasta fagioli into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
This recipe provides a simple, yet fulfilling way to enjoy pasta fagioli. The key is to let the flavors develop, giving you a hearty and comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. This is a classic pairing that allows you to soak up all the delicious broth.
- Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty and savory element that complements the soup perfectly.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or other herbs like basil or oregano for a fresh burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup.
These suggestions are designed to enhance your easy pasta fagioli experience.
Notes and Tips
- Bean Variations: While cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute other white beans, such as great northern beans or navy beans.
- Vegetable Flexibility: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, spinach, or kale. Adding vegetables increases the nutritional value of your pasta fagioli.
- Pasta Choice: Ditalini is a classic choice for pasta fagioli, but any small pasta shape will work well. Consider elbow macaroni, small shells, or even broken spaghetti.
- Broth Quality: Using a good-quality vegetable broth will significantly enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Make Ahead: Pasta fagioli tastes even better the next day! Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and deepen over time.
- Freezing: You can freeze pasta fagioli. However, it’s best to freeze the soup before adding the pasta. Cook the pasta separately and add it when you reheat the soup to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs.
- Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier method, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sauté the vegetables as directed, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
- Spice it Up: For a little extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or a dash of your favorite hot sauce before serving.
- Meat Options: While this recipe is vegetarian, you can add meat. Cook some Italian sausage or ground beef with the vegetables for extra protein. Brown the meat before adding the vegetables.
This easy pasta fagioli recipe is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Italian comfort food. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
With this easy pasta fagioli recipe, you’re well on your way to creating a memorable meal. From the initial preparation to the final garnish, each step contributes to a symphony of flavors that embody the essence of Italian cuisine. The aroma alone will transport you to a cozy trattoria, and the first spoonful will confirm that you’ve created something truly special. This recipe is designed to be accessible, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks. Embrace the simplicity, savor the flavors, and enjoy the warmth that only a bowl of homemade pasta fagioli can provide. Remember, the best recipes are those that are shared and enjoyed. So, gather your loved ones, prepare this delightful soup, and create lasting memories around the table. Bon appétit!
This easy pasta fagioli is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s about the joy of cooking, the pleasure of sharing a meal, and the comfort that comes from a warm bowl of soup. Embrace the process, enjoy the flavors, and make this recipe your own. The beauty of pasta fagioli lies in its adaptability. You can tailor it to your personal tastes, adding or subtracting ingredients as you see fit. The foundation of this recipe remains the same: fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and a whole lot of love. So, go ahead, create your own version of this classic Italian dish, and let the flavors transport you to a world of culinary delight. This recipe is a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and the joy of cooking.
This easy pasta fagioli recipe is a culinary journey that’s both rewarding and accessible. It encapsulates the essence of Italian cooking: fresh, simple ingredients combined with time-honored techniques. Each step is designed to guide you towards a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is your passport to a world of flavor and comfort. The beauty of pasta fagioli is its versatility and the ability to adapt it to your preferences. Experiment with different beans, vegetables, and herbs to create your own unique version of this classic Italian dish. And don’t forget the most important ingredient: love. Pour your heart into the cooking process, share your creation with those you care about, and savor every delicious moment. Enjoy the journey, the flavors, and the warmth that comes from a bowl of homemade easy pasta fagioli.
