Pasta e Fagiole

Pasta e Fagiole is a comforting Italian dish that combines pasta and beans in a rich broth. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings, offering warmth and flavor. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can enjoy this traditional recipe that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber-rich beans and fresh vegetables, this dish supports a healthy diet.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or as a side dish, Pasta e Fagiole adapts to any occasion.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of olive oil, garlic, and herbs creates a flavorful broth that elevates the simple ingredients.
• Comfort Food Classic: This traditional recipe brings warmth and nostalgia, making it ideal for chilly days.

Tools and Preparation

To make Pasta e Fagiole, having the right tools is essential for a seamless cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy pot: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring your ingredients cook uniformly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while mixing flavors together.

Ingredients

A traditional Italian dish made of pasta and beans that was born out of peasant cooking.

Pantry Staples

• Good Quality Olive Oil
• 3 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
• Salt & Pepper
• Dash Of Red Pepper Flakes

Fresh Produce

• 2 Large Garlic Cloves, Minced
• 1 Large Carrot, Finely Chopped
• 2 Celery Stalks, Finely Chopped
• 1 Small Onion, Finely Chopped
• 1/3 Cup Chopped Fresh Parsley

Canned Goods

• 1 (28 Ounce) Can Chopped Tomatoes – I Use Mutti Brand
• 1 Quart Chicken Broth
• 2 Cups Water

Beans & Pasta

• 2 (14 Ounce) Tins Cannellini Beans (or Equivalent, Prepared From Dried)
• 2 Cups Small Pasta (Tubettini or Ditalini)

Optional Ingredients

• 1/3 Cup Finely Chopped Pancetta or Turkey Bacon

How to Make Pasta e Fagiole

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, pancetta (if using), and celery. Cook until soft.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Beans

Pour in the chicken broth, cannellini beans, chopped tomatoes, and water. Stir well and cook for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Puree Some Beans (Optional)

Remove a few scoops of the bean mixture. Use a blender or fork to puree or mash them before returning to the pot. This step adds creaminess to your soup.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Seasonings

Stir in the small pasta along with chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything well to combine.

Step 6: Cook Until Al Dente

Cook until the pasta is al dente according to package instructions—usually around 8-10 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve your Pasta e Fagiole hot in bowls. Drizzle with olive oil on top, add shaved cheese if desired, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagiole

Pasta e Fagiole is a comforting dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. It’s versatile and can be enjoyed in several delightful ways that enhance its flavors.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in individual bowls topped with shaved Parmesan for a rich finish.
• Drizzle with good quality olive oil for an extra layer of flavor.

Garnish Options

• Add fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
• Sprinkle a dash of red pepper flakes to provide a bit of heat.

Accompaniment Suggestions

• Pair with crusty Italian bread for dipping into the soup.
• Offer a side of mixed green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Beverage Pairings

• Enjoy with a glass of Chianti wine, which complements the dish’s hearty flavors.
• For non-alcoholic options, serve with sparkling water infused with lemon.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagiole

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Pasta e Fagiole, consider these tips that elevate this traditional Italian dish.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good olive oil enhance the overall taste.
• Don’t rush the cooking: Allowing each ingredient to soften properly develops deeper flavors.
• Experiment with beans: While cannellini beans are classic, feel free to use other types for different textures.
• Mash some beans: Pureeing part of the bean mixture creates a creamier consistency in the soup.
• Adjust seasoning as needed: Taste and season throughout cooking for balanced flavors.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagiole

When serving Pasta e Fagiole, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread — A crunchy, toasted option perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad — Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add contrast and brightness.
3. Antipasto Platter — A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives enhances your Italian feast.
4. Roasted Vegetables — Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a healthy side.
5. Focaccia Bread — Soft and flavorful, it’s excellent for soaking up leftover broth.
6. Bruschetta — Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil offers a refreshing bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta e Fagiole can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect its flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking your dried beans can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak them overnight for the best results.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente to maintain a good texture in your soup.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning is a common mistake. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as you go for a flavorful dish.
• Using Low-Quality Olive Oil: Cheap oil can ruin the dish’s richness. Invest in good quality olive oil for drizzling at the end.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh parsley diminishes freshness and flavor. Always add fresh herbs before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Pasta e Fagiole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Pasta e Fagiole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pasta e Fagiole.

What is Pasta e Fagiole?

Pasta e Fagiole is a traditional Italian dish made with pasta and beans, often rich in flavors with vegetables and herbs.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes, while cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute other beans like kidney or navy beans based on your preference.

How do I make Pasta e Fagiole vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit pancetta or turkey bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What pasta should I use for Pasta e Fagiole?

Small pasta shapes like tubettini or ditalini work best since they blend well with the soup’s texture and ingredients.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagiole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagiole is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding extra vegetables or adjusting spices. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week ahead—give it a try!

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Pasta e Fagiole

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Pasta e Fagiole is a traditional Italian bean soup that embodies comfort and warmth in every bowl. Featuring a delightful combination of small pasta and fiber-rich cannellini beans, this dish is simmered in a rich broth made flavorful with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s not only nourishing but also incredibly satisfying. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up this hearty soup that brings the essence of Italy right to your kitchen. Serve it hot with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an authentic touch that will impress everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Good Quality Olive Oil
• 3 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
• Salt & Pepper
• Dash Of Red Pepper Flakes
• 2 Large Garlic Cloves, Minced
• 1 Large Carrot, Finely Chopped
• 2 Celery Stalks, Finely Chopped
• 1 Small Onion, Finely Chopped
• 1/3 Cup Chopped Fresh Parsley
• 1 (28 Ounce) Can Chopped Tomatoes – I Use Mutti Brand
• 1 Quart Chicken Broth
• 2 Cups Water
• 2 (14 Ounce) Tins Cannellini Beans (or Equivalent, Prepared From Dried)
• 2 Cups Small Pasta (Tubettini or Ditalini)
• 1/3 Cup Finely Chopped Pancetta or Turkey Bacon

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Instructions

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrot, celery, and pancetta (if using) and cook until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth, cannellini beans, chopped tomatoes, and water. Stir well and simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. For creaminess, remove some beans to puree before returning them to the pot.
5. Add small pasta along with parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly.
6. Cook until pasta is al dente according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes).
7. Serve hot with drizzled olive oil and shaved cheese on top.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 5mg