Classic Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pasta Fagioli, also known as Pasta Fazool, is a traditional Italian soup that combines pasta and beans in a savory broth. This hearty dish works well for a comforting meal and can be made with simple pantry ingredients.
The recipe is easy to follow and can be customized with different types of beans and pasta to suit your taste.
What is Pasta Fagioli?
Pasta Fagioli, or Pasta Fazool, is a classic Italian soup that nicely combines pasta and beans in a savory broth.
This dish has roots in Italian peasant cuisine, showing how simple ingredients can create a hearty and satisfying meal.
Its comforting nature makes it a popular choice, especially during colder months when a warm bowl of soup is most inviting.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The beauty of Pasta Fagioli is in its versatility.
While the traditional recipe calls for ditalini pasta and cannellini beans, feel free to experiment with different types of pasta and beans to suit your preferences.
Fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs add depth to the broth, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese makes the overall flavor profile better.
Cooking Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
To create this nice soup, start by cooking onions and garlic in olive oil until they soften.
Next, add diced tomatoes and broth, letting the mixture come to a boil.
Once boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente, then stir in the beans for a final touch of creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Pasta Fagioli is best served hot, ladled into simple bowls.
Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for color and flavor.
A slice of crusty bread on the side works well for dipping, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Nutrition and Comfort
This soup not only warms the soul but also provides a balanced meal.
With about 220 calories per serving, it offers a good source of protein and carbohydrates, making it a filling option.
Whether enjoyed as a main course or a starter, Pasta Fagioli is a nourishing dish that satisfies.
Variations to Try
While the classic version is always a hit, consider adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
For a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can make the flavor better.
Trying different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can also create a unique twist on this traditional recipe.
Hearty Pasta Fagioli Recipe
This Pasta Fagioli features tender pasta and creamy beans simmered in a flavorful broth with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ditalini or small pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, and basil. Bring to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Beans: Stir in the cannellini beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
Classic Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup ditalini or small pasta
- 1 can 15 oz cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, and basil. Bring to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Beans: Stir in the cannellini beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
