Easy Pasta Fagioli

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting dish that brings the heart of Italy into your home. This recipe offers a warm and hearty meal that’s perfect for chilly nights or any occasion when you crave something satisfying. Packed with beans, vegetables, and pasta, it’s not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to please various palates.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal in no time.
• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of beans and pasta makes this dish filling, ensuring you stay satisfied.
• Full of Flavor: Fresh herbs and spices add depth, making each bite a burst of flavor.
• Versatile: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
• Nutritious: Packed with healthy ingredients, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Easy Pasta Fagioli recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the sauce without spilling.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Allows you to cook the pasta evenly while keeping it separate from the sauce.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precision when dicing vegetables quickly and safely.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For this Easy Pasta Fagioli, gather the following ingredients:

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 thin slices onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic, chopped

Broth & Seasonings

• 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

Beans & Pasta

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

Step 2: Create the Sauce Mixture

1. Add the tomato sauce and chicken broth to the sautéed vegetables.
2. Season with freshly ground black pepper, dried parsley, and dried basil.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. In a separate large pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Add ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8 minutes) until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta once cooked.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Stir in the drained cannellini beans into the sauce mixture.
2. Let it simmer for an additional few minutes until everything is heated through.
3. Once the pasta is done, add it into the sauce and bean mixture; stir well to combine.

Now you’re ready to serve your Easy Pasta Fagioli! Enjoy it warm with crusty bread or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli

Serving Easy Pasta Fagioli is all about enhancing its flavors and creating a satisfying meal experience. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home.

With Fresh Grated Cheese

• Romano or Parmesan: A light grating of these cheeses adds a savory depth to your pasta fagioli, elevating its taste.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: These types of bread are perfect for dipping into the soup, offering a satisfying crunch that complements the soft pasta and beans.

Accompany with a Green Salad

• Mixed Greens: A fresh salad with arugula, spinach, and a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup while adding a healthy touch.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Portions: Presenting pasta fagioli in individual bowls makes for an inviting table setting and allows guests to enjoy their own servings.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli

To achieve the best version of Easy Pasta Fagioli, consider these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will give your dish vibrant flavors compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjusting salt, pepper, and herbs ensures that the soup has the perfect balance of flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, cook ditalini pasta separately. This prevents it from becoming mushy when added to the soup.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances its depth of flavor as ingredients meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli

Easy Pasta Fagioli pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its robust flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic choice is perfect for soaking up broth and adds a delicious garlic flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: Made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, this salad provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection bring added nutrition and flavor to your meal.
4. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries add crunchiness that pairs well with the softness of pasta fagioli.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice or quinoa, these colorful peppers offer a filling addition to your meal.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and cheeses offers variety and excitement alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Easy Pasta Fagioli from good to great. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the broth can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to soften the carrots, celery, and onions.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The amounts of herbs and spices should be adjusted according to personal taste. Don’t hesitate to add more black pepper or herbs if desired.
• Using canned beans without rinsing: Rinsing cannellini beans helps remove excess sodium and prevents a gritty texture in your soup. Always drain and rinse them before adding.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Skipping the simmering step can result in bland soup. Allow your mixture to simmer for at least 20 minutes for richer flavors.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Pasta Fagioli:

Can I use different types of pasta?

You can substitute ditalini with other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version of Easy Pasta Fagioli, simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure all ingredients are plant-based.

What can I serve with Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Pair this dish with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Can I add meat to Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Yes! You can enhance your soup by adding cooked chicken or turkey. Just stir them in towards the end of cooking.

How do I customize Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition. Adjust seasonings based on your preference as well!

Final Thoughts

The Easy Pasta Fagioli is hearty, comforting, and incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins according to what you have on hand. This recipe is perfect not just for warming up on chilly nights but also for impressing guests with minimal effort!