© Original recipe by The Culinary Delight ©
Cozy Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe for Tonight 🍲✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting, hearty soup that combines the richness of Italian flavors with the nourishment of beans and pasta, then this Pasta Fagioli recipe is perfect for you. Known as Italian soup, hearty pasta, or bean soup, Pasta Fagioli is a versatile dish loved across communities for its warm, filling qualities. This recipe brings that classic taste to your dinner table with simple ingredients and easy steps. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or meal prepping for the week, this Pasta Fagioli will never disappoint.
2. Ingredients Needed for this Classic Pasta Fagioli Recipe
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Perfect Pasta Fagioli
Preparing the Aromatic Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Building the Soup
Add the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, broth, and seasonings (oregano, thyme, bay leaf). Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Cooking the Pasta
While the soup simmers, cook the pasta separately in boiling salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combining and Serving
Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Stir in the cooked pasta and simmer for another 5 minutes to meld flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
4. Tips for Making the Best Pasta Fagioli
- Use quality broth for a richer taste.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a small portion of the beans and vegetables before adding the pasta.
- Feel free to add spinach or other greens for extra nutrition.
5. How to Store and Reheat Leftover Pasta Fagioli
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.
6. Delicious Serving Ideas for Pasta Fagioli
- Serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping.
- Top with grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for added flavor.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
7. FAQ About Pasta Fagioli
Can I make Pasta Fagioli vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you can add extra vegetables for a vegetarian variation.
What type of pasta is best for this Italian soup?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work best. They absorb flavors well and cook quickly.
How long does it take to prepare Pasta Fagioli?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal for weeknights.
Can I freeze Pasta Fagioli?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly.
8. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for quick reheats or toasting bread to serve alongside your soup, making your pasta fagioli dinner even more delightful.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures easy stirring and cooking of your soup and pasta with durable, non-stick convenience.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Helpful for preparing any side dishes or bread that pairs beautifully with Pasta Fagioli.
9. Conclusion
This Pasta Fagioli recipe offers a cozy, hearty meal that’s perfect for tonight’s dinner table. Combining robust Italian flavors with nourishing beans and pasta, it’s an authentic dish that’s quick to prepare and easily customizable. Whether you prefer a vegetarian version or want to enrich it with greens, this soup is a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Embrace the comforting flavors of Italy with this delicious bean soup that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
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Cozy Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe for Tonight
A flavorful and comforting Italian bean and pasta soup packed with fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in beans, tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes to develop flavors.
- Add pasta to the soup and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Feel free to add cooked sausage or kale for added flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
