Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

A hearty and comforting Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. This rustic Italian soup features a delightful blend of beans, pasta, and fresh vegetables, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture will warm your heart and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks while still impressing seasoned chefs.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs, beans, and vegetables creates a rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or as a side; this soup fits into any meal plan effortlessly.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with protein from the beans and vitamins from the veggies, this soup makes for a healthy dinner option.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for an easy meal on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process smoother. Having the right equipment will help you create the perfect soup without any hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without risk of overflow.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when preparing your vegetables.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

A hearty, rustic Italian soup made with beans, pasta, vegetables, and herbs. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

For the Base

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Flavor

• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

For Protein

• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans

For Pasta & Herbs

• 1 cup small pasta
• 1 sprig rosemary (or ½ tsp dried)
• 2 sprigs thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
• 1 bay leaf

Seasoning & Serving Suggestions

• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• Parmesan and parsley for serving (optional)

How to Make Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Sauté onion, carrot, and celery in olive oil until soft. Add garlic.

Step 2: Add Tomato Components

Stir in tomato paste and diced tomatoes until well combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Beans

Add broth, cannellini beans, kidney beans, herbs, and bay leaf. Bring to boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes to enhance flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add pasta to the pot and cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Step 6: Final Seasoning & Serve

Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove herbs before serving with optional Parmesan and parsley on top.

How to Serve Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Serving the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit various tastes. This hearty soup is not only filling but also offers a warm, comforting flavor that pairs well with several accompaniments.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A slice of warm, crusty baguette makes for a perfect dipper.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor enhances the soup’s richness.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan: While optional, this cheese adds creaminess and depth of flavor.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the flavors beautifully.

Served as a Main Dish

• With Croutons: Adding crispy croutons gives texture and crunch to your bowl.
• In a Bread Bowl: For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl.

How to Perfect Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Perfecting your Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli recipe can elevate this dish to new heights. Here are some tips to consider for achieving the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Each broth varies in saltiness.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For better texture, consider cooking pasta separately and adding it just before serving.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to try different herbs like basil or oregano for a unique twist.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance.

Best Side Dishes for Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options to complement this delicious soup.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft dough twisted into knots brushed with garlic butter make for a delightful addition.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring brightness and freshness to the table.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a healthy touch alongside your hearty soup.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil provides a crunchy contrast.
5. Cheesy Stuffed Peppers: These stuffed peppers filled with cheese are flavorful and filling without overshadowing the soup.
6. Spinach and Artichoke Dip: A creamy dip served with pita chips can be a rich complement to the rustic flavors of pasta fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the Sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to cook the onions, carrots, and celery until soft for enhanced flavor.
• Ignoring Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh ones can change the taste profile. If possible, opt for fresh rosemary and thyme for a brighter flavor.
• Overcooking Pasta: Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Cook the pasta just until al dente for the best texture in your soup.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Forgetting to season before serving may result in an unbalanced flavor. Always taste at the end and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Neglecting Storage Tips: Improper storage can affect freshness. Ensure your soup is stored in airtight containers for optimal shelf life.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish; cover with foil and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe.

What is Pasta Fagioli?

Pasta Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with beans, pasta, tomatoes, and herbs. It’s hearty and perfect for chilly days.

Can I make Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any meat additions for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I customize my Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

You can add different vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap out the beans based on your preference.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can include diced chicken or turkey for added protein if desired.

Final Thoughts

The Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a comforting dish that combines rich flavors and nutritious ingredients. It’s versatile enough to accommodate various tastes and dietary preferences. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins!