Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

Olive Garden’s famous Pasta Fagioli soup is a comforting dish perfect for cozy evenings and gatherings. This Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli recipe captures the essence of this beloved soup, delivering rich flavors without compromising on health. It’s an ideal choice for chilly fall nights or rainy spring days, featuring hearty beans and pasta in a savory broth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: With fresh herbs and spices, each bowl is packed with flavor that warms you up.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories and high in protein, this soup fits well into any healthy eating plan.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch your guests ask for seconds!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cooking spray
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly, ensuring all ingredients meld perfectly.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, enhancing your cooking efficiency.

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Ingredients

For this delicious Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1/2 cup ditalini pasta or large ringed pasta
• 8 oz of sweet Italian turkey sausage
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Beans

• 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can of Dark Red Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed

Toppings (Optional)

• Parmesan cheese

How to Make Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Sausage

• Spray a large Dutch oven with cooking spray.
• Heat to medium-high heat.
• Add sweet Italian turkey sausage to the skillet and cook until browned for about 3-5 minutes.
• Drain excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Stir in garlic, onion, carrots, and celery.
• Cook while stirring occasionally until tender for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• Whisk in chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, and thyme.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer covered until vegetables are tender for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Beans

• Add uncooked pasta and beans into the pot.
• Cook until heated through.

Step 5: Serve

• Ladle into bowls and top with optional parmesan cheese if desired.
• Enjoy your hearty bowl of Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli!

This recipe serves about nine people with each serving size being one cup. Perfect for sharing!

How to Serve Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli is a hearty and comforting soup that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy a warm slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping. This combination enhances the flavors and provides a satisfying crunch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top before serving. This adds color and a burst of flavor that brightens the dish.

Served with a Side Salad

• Pair your soup with a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the pasta fagioli beautifully.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Offer grated parmesan cheese as an optional topping. The salty, nutty flavor of the cheese rounds out the meal perfectly.

In Individual Bowls

• Serve in individual bowls for an elegant presentation. This makes each serving feel special and perfect for entertaining guests.

How to Perfect Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

To make your Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli even better, consider these helpful tips for enhancing the flavors and textures.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition, making your soup taste more vibrant.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your preference. This ensures every bowl is perfectly seasoned.
• Cook pasta separately: If you prefer al dente pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving to avoid overcooking.
• Let it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the soup a day in advance. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further.

Best Side Dishes for Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

Complementing your Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli with tasty side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up delicious soup broth.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness to balance out the meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide added nutrients and vibrant colors to your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs offers a protein boost while being refreshing.
5. Bruschetta: Top toasted baguette slices with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil for a tasty appetizer.
6. Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans add color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers can be served alongside as a filling option that’s sure to impress.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to savory dishes like pasta fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using the wrong pasta: Ditalini is ideal for this soup. If you substitute with a different type, it may not cook properly. Stick with small pasta shapes for best results.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender-crisp to maintain their texture and flavor.
• Skipping the seasoning: A bland soup can ruin your meal. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for the best flavor.
• Not letting it simmer: Rushing through the simmering process can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Allow your soup to simmer for at least 10-15 minutes to enhance taste.
• Ignoring bean prep: Not rinsing canned beans can add excess sodium to your dish. Always drain and rinse them well before adding to your soup.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring halfway through until hot, usually about 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, approximately 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can easily substitute turkey sausage with ground chicken or beef for different flavors.

Is Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with vegetables and lean protein while being low in calories, making it a nutritious choice.

How can I customize my Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli?

Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also switch up the beans based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the meat and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian version of Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli.

Final Thoughts

Weight Watchers Pasta Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly night or meal prep options throughout the week, this recipe fits perfectly. Try adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for a personal touch!