Easy Pasta Fagioli

Typical Italian hearty winter fare done easy! Easy Pasta Fagioli is perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal. This recipe brings together robust flavors with minimal effort, making it a favorite for busy cooks. Serve it warm and enjoy a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, you can enjoy this delicious soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of beans and pasta provides a satisfying meal that will keep you full for hours.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand; this recipe easily adapts to your pantry staples.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with fiber and protein, Easy Pasta Fagioli is not only tasty but also good for your health.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a festive gathering, this dish suits any setting.

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Pasta Fagioli, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

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 soup base, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of the ditalini pasta, which is vital for achieving that perfect al dente texture.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients quickly and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: A good quality knife makes prep work easier and safer, ensuring precise cuts on your vegetables.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 carrot diced
• 2 stalk celery diced
• 2 thin slice onion diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic chopped
• 1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
• 2 14 ounce chicken broth
• freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves

For the Pasta and Beans

• 2 15 ounce 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 diced carrots, celery, and onion; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in chopped garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup Base

1. Stir in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, freshly ground black pepper, dried parsley, and dried basil.
2. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes so that all flavors can combine beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta

1. In a separate large pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Add ditalini pasta and cook for approximately 8 minutes or until al dente; then drain.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add drained cannellini beans to the soup mixture; simmer for an additional few minutes.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, stir it into the soup along with the beans to create a hearty dish.

Enjoy your Easy Pasta Fagioli served hot in bowls with crusty bread on the side!

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy slices of warm, crusty bread on the side. The crispy texture complements the soup’s richness and is perfect for soaking up every drop.

Fresh Salad

• A light, refreshing salad pairs wonderfully with Easy Pasta Fagioli. Consider arugula or mixed greens tossed with a simple vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Grated Cheese

• Top each bowl of soup with freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese. This adds a creamy texture and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

Garlic Bread

• Serve with garlic bread for an extra burst of flavor. The buttery, garlicky taste contrasts nicely with the savory soup.

Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top before serving elevates the dish. It adds richness and depth to the flavors of your Easy Pasta Fagioli.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli

To make your Easy Pasta Fagioli even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring out the best flavors in your dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust seasoning according to your preference for a more personalized flavor.
• Simmer Longer: Allow the soup to simmer longer than suggested if time permits; this deepens the flavors.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; it tastes even better the next day!

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli

Pair your Easy Pasta Fagioli with these delicious side dishes for a complete meal that everyone will love.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables – Toss seasonal veggies with olive oil and garlic, then roast until tender and caramelized.
2. Caprese Salad – Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing side.
3. Stuffed Peppers – Fill bell peppers with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, and spices; bake until tender for a hearty addition.
4. Polenta Cakes – Serve crispy polenta cakes alongside; they provide a delightful texture contrast.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted baguette topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes an excellent appetizer or side.
6. Crispy Kale Chips – Bake kale leaves tossed in olive oil until crisp; they add crunch and nutrition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking pasta fagioli can be effortless, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome of your dish.

• Bold Preparation: Failing to prepare your ingredients in advance can result in overcooked vegetables or undercooked pasta. Always chop and measure before you start cooking.
• Bold Ignoring Broth Quality: Using low-quality stock or broth can lead to a bland soup. Opt for a good-quality chicken broth to enhance the flavor of your Easy Pasta Fagioli.
• Bold Skipping Seasoning: Not adding enough seasoning can leave your dish flat. Taste as you cook and adjust the seasonings, especially with freshly ground black pepper and herbs.
• Bold Overcooking Pasta: Cooking pasta too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente, which adds texture and holds up better in the soup.
• Bold Neglecting Simmer Time: Rushing through simmering can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 20 minutes for optimal taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Pasta Fagioli.

What is Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta, beans, and vegetables simmered in broth. It’s perfect for cold weather!

Can I customize Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like spinach or kale, swap out the ditalini pasta for another type, or even use turkey instead of beans for added protein.

How do I make my Easy Pasta Fagioli thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot or reduce the amount of broth used.

Is Easy Pasta Fagioli vegan?

While this recipe includes chicken broth, you can easily make it vegan by using vegetable broth and omitting any animal products.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta Fagioli is not only a comforting meal but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. This dish is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike—give it a try!