Pasta e Fagioli soup

This hearty Pasta e Fagioli soup is a delightful Italian classic that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Perfect for chilly evenings or a quick weekday meal, this soup is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to accommodate whatever ingredients you have on hand. With its rich blend of beans, vegetables, and pasta, it’s a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you have left in the fridge for a unique twist each time.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with beans and pasta, it’s a meal in itself that will keep you satisfied.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust spices and herbs to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, making it great for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Pasta e Fagioli soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot: Ideal for simmering large quantities of soup at once, ensuring even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Chopping board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
• Sharp knife: Makes food prep easier and safer by allowing precise cuts.

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Ingredients

For this delightful Pasta e Fagioli soup, gather the following ingredients:

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1/4 cup oil (vegetable OR olive)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 1 tbsp garlic (minced)
• 2 whole carrots (chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)

Broth and Beans

• 6 cups broth (chicken OR vegetable)
• 1 can kidney beans (drained)
• 1 can cannelloni beans (white) (drained)

Tomatoes and Seasonings

• 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
• 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

Pasta

• 4 cups water
• 1-2 cups dry pasta (uncooked)

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable or olive oil over medium heat in a large stock pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Sauté the following ingredients in the hot oil until the onions are translucent:
1. Add diced onion to the pot.
2. Stir in chopped celery, minced garlic, and chopped carrots.
3. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Broth and Beans

Add chicken or vegetable broth along with these ingredients:
– Tomato sauce
– Diced tomatoes
– Drained kidney beans
– Drained cannelloni beans
– Water
– Spices

Bring all ingredients to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes so flavors meld together.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Finally, stir in uncooked pasta into the pot:
– Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until pasta reaches desired consistency.

Now you’re ready to serve up delicious bowls of Pasta e Fagioli soup! Enjoy your homemade Italian delight.

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli soup

Pasta e Fagioli soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves – Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the soup’s richness.

Alongside Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve with toasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Breadsticks – Pair with soft, warm breadsticks for a delightful crunch.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan – A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth to each bowl.
• Vegan Cheese – For a plant-based option, try using shredded vegan cheese that melts well.

With Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – A light mixed greens salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Caesar Salad – For a classic pairing, serve with Caesar salad for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli soup

To make your Pasta e Fagioli soup even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Base – Sauté the vegetables until they are nicely caramelized. This deepens the flavor of your soup.
• Quality Broth – Use high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for the best taste. Homemade broth can elevate your soup significantly.
• Stir in Greens – Adding fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking enhances nutrition and adds color.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving for a perfectly balanced flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli soup

Pasta e Fagioli soup pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a fresh appetizer.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a colorful and nutritious addition to your table.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables create a hearty complement.
5. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
6. Antipasto Platter – A platter filled with olives, artichokes, and marinated veggies makes an impressive side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Not sautéing the vegetables first can result in a less flavorful soup. Always start by sautéing onions, garlic, and other veggies for better taste.
• Using Cold Broth: Adding cold broth can slow down the cooking process and affect texture. Make sure your broth is warm before adding it to the pot.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking to maintain its texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting the seasoning can leave your soup bland. Always taste and add more salt or spices as needed.
• Ignoring Customization Options: Sticking strictly to the recipe might limit your creativity. Feel free to add or substitute vegetables or beans based on what you have.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the soup fresh.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli soup

• • Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish; cover and heat until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl; heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pasta e Fagioli soup that may help you.

What is Pasta e Fagioli soup?

Pasta e Fagioli soup is a traditional Italian dish made with pasta and beans. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor.

Can I make Pasta e Fagioli soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and you’re good to go.

How long does Pasta e Fagioli soup last?

The soup can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli soup?

Yes! You can add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or even switch up the types of beans used.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or using up leftovers, this recipe is perfect for any occasion!