Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful dish that not only warms the soul but also fills your belly with wholesome goodness. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings, offering a hearty blend of flavors and nutritious ingredients. Each spoonful showcases tender pasta and beans enveloped in a savory broth, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this soup is easy to whip up for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of herbs and vegetables creates a robust flavor profile that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or beans.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with fiber and protein, this recipe is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help you prepare the soup quickly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables evenly while allowing ample space for simmering the soup ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring your prep area stays organized.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting onions, garlic, carrots, and celery much easier and faster.

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Ingredients

Pasta and Legumes

• 6 ounces ditalini pasta (uncooked)
• 15 ounces cannellini beans (canned and drained)
• 15 ounces kidney beans (canned and drained)

Vegetables and Broth

• 1 cup white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (chopped finely)
• 1 1/2 cups carrots (chopped small, about 2 carrots)
• 1/2 cup celery (chopped)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 15 ounces tomatoes (diced; canned or fresh)
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste

Herbs and Spices

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black ground pepper

How to Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by adding about 3 tablespoons of water to a large skillet. Sauté the diced onions over medium heat for about 10 minutes until they become translucent. Add the chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chopped carrots, chopped celery, dried oregano, dried basil, and cumin to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the uncooked ditalini pasta along with both types of beans. Stir gently to ensure everything is mixed well.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

Reduce the heat to medium-high and let the soup cook for about 6 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the pasta reaches an al dente texture.

Step 5: Season

Once cooked, add salt and black pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with crusty bread or breadsticks on the side for dipping. Enjoy your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Serving Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is an opportunity to elevate a comforting dish into a delightful meal. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf pairs beautifully with the soup, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a burst of color and enhances the aroma of your dish.

Alongside a Fresh Salad

• Serve the soup with a light salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. The freshness balances the hearty flavors of the soup.

With Parmesan Cheese

• Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. This adds creaminess and a savory depth to the soup.

As a Filling Lunch Option

• Consider serving it in large mugs for lunch or brunch gatherings. It’s easy to enjoy and offers a satisfying meal without much fuss.

How to Perfect Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Enhancing your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup can make it even more delicious and satisfying. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is perfect every time.

• Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade or low-sodium vegetable broth for the best flavor without overpowering saltiness.

• Cook Pasta Separately: To prevent overcooking, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before serving.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

• Balance Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving can enhance its flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Complement your Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup with these delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors while providing variety to your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread sticks are perfect for dipping into the soup, adding an extra layer of flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a healthy touch and bring out natural sweetness that pairs well with the soup.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs offer a savory bite complementing the main dish.
5. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks topped with melted cheese provide a deliciously cheesy companion to your soup.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the pasta e fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to slip up. Avoiding these common mistakes can enhance your soup’s flavor and texture.

• Bold ingredient substitutions: Replacing ingredients without considering their flavors can alter the soup. Stick to the recipe for the best taste.
• Bold overcooking pasta: Cooking the pasta too long makes it mushy. Aim for al dente by following the cooking time closely.
• Bold skipping seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can dull the flavor. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Bold using canned beans incorrectly: Not rinsing canned beans can lead to excess sodium. Always drain and rinse them before adding to your soup.
• Bold ignoring simmer time: Rushing through cooking can affect flavors melding. Allow the soup to simmer properly for a richer taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty plastic bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm throughout, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a flavorful Italian bean and pasta soup made with vegetables, beans, and aromatic seasonings.

How do I make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup vegan?

To keep this soup vegan, use vegetable broth and ensure all ingredients are plant-based, which is already accounted for in this recipe.

Can I customize Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Yes! You can add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini or swap out beans according to your preference.

How long does Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup last?

The soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator and up to three months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also versatile! Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or beans. This hearty dish is perfect for meal prep or serving on chilly nights. Try it today!