Pasta Fagioli, an acclaimed traditional pasta and beans recipe from Italy, is a perfect blend of comfort and simplicity. This dish is a hearty, easy-to-make soup ideal for chilly days or when you crave something warm and filling.
Photos of Pasta Fagioli (Pasta and Beans) Recipe
Most of the ingredients for Pasta Fagioli are pantry staples. However, pay attention to two main ingredients that might not be routinely present in your kitchen: the cannellini beans and ditalini pasta. Cannellini beans are Italian white kidney beans that are larger and meatier than other white beans, contributing to the texture and protein content of the soup. Ditalini pasta is a small, tubular pasta that goes well in soups and stews. If you can't find ditalini, small elbow macaroni can be used as a substitute.
Ingredients for Traditional Pasta Fagioli
Olive oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the onions and garlic, providing a flavorful base for the soup.
Onion and Garlic: These are aromatic ingredients that give the soup its basic flavor.
Celery and Carrot: These veggies provide a satisfying crunch and additional flavor.
Cannellini beans: These are the 'fagioli' in Pasta Fagioli, providing protein and substance to the soup.
Tomato sauce: It helps to create a rich, hearty broth.
Bay leaf, Basil, Parsley and Oregano: These herbs contribute to the classic Italian flavor of Pasta Fagioli.
Chicken broth: It serves as the liquid base of the soup, contributing to its savory flavor.
Ditalini pasta: This small, tubular pasta fits perfectly on a spoon, making it a popular choice for soup.
Parmesan cheese: Used as a topping, it adds a salty, umami flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
One reader, Gage Roth says:
This pasta fagioli recipe is a game-changer! The combination of tender pasta and hearty beans in a rich, flavorful broth is simply divine. It's a comforting, satisfying dish that's easy to make. I love how the flavors meld together, creating a truly delicious and traditional Italian meal. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required
How to sauté onion and garlic: In a deep pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until they become translucent and fragrant.
How to blend beans: In an electric blender, combine one cup of cannellini beans with one can of water. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
How to cook pasta al dente: Add the dry ditalini pasta to the simmering soup and cook uncovered until the pasta is al dente, following the instructions on the pasta package. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
How to ladle soup into bowls: Use a ladle to carefully portion the pasta fagioli into individual serving bowls, ensuring that each bowl has a good balance of pasta, beans, and broth.
How to top with grated cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese over each serving of pasta fagioli before serving. The cheese will melt slightly and add a delicious savory flavor to the dish.
How To Make Pasta Fagioli (Pasta and Beans)
This pasta fagioli recipe brings together pasta, hearty beans, and vibrant veggies to create a soup that’s warm, comforting, and very quick to make.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tbspolive oil
- ½onion
- 3cloves garlic,chopped
- 1medium celery stalk,chopped
- 1medium carrot,finely chopped
- 15ozcannellini beans
- 15oztomato sauce,or crushed tomatoes
- 1large bay leaf
- 1tbspbasil
- 1tbspparsley
- 1tsporegano
- 28ozfat free chicken broth,or vegetable broth for vegetarians
- 2cupswater
- kosher salt and pepper,to taste
- 6ozdry Ditalini pasta,or other small pasta, or gluten free pasta for gluten-free
- parmesan cheese for topping,grated, optional
Instructions
-
In a deep pot, saute onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat.
-
Blend the cup of beans with one can water in electric blender until almost smooth.
-
Add blended beans to pan then add the can of tomato sauce, celery, carrots, chicken broth, basil, bay leaf, parsley, oregano, salt and pepper.
-
Add 1 cup water and bring to a boil. Simmer, covered for 20 minutes stirring occasionally.
-
Add pasta and cook uncovered until pasta is al dente, according to pasta directions.
-
Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated cheese.
Nutrition
- Calories: 529.95kcal
- Fat: 6.24g
- Saturated Fat: 1.24g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.08g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.28g
- Carbohydrates: 91.22g
- Fiber: 16.55g
- Sugar: 9.50g
- Protein: 29.97g
- Cholesterol: 4.76mg
- Sodium: 1158.10mg
- Calcium: 257.50mg
- Potassium: 2136.09mg
- Iron: 10.95mg
- Vitamin A: 129.56µg
- Vitamin C: 9.91mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Pasta Fagioli
When preparing the pasta fagioli, it's important to remember that the consistency of the soup can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend more cannellini beans to create a creamier texture. Conversely, if you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more chicken broth or water. Remember, the pasta will absorb some of the liquid as it cooks, so it's better to have more liquid at the beginning.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pasta Fagioli
Plan: Before starting, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed for the recipe. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
Prep: Chop, dice, and measure all the ingredients in advance. This will save time during the cooking process and keep everything organized.
Multi-task: Look for opportunities to multi-task, such as chopping vegetables while waiting for water to boil or allowing the soup to simmer while preparing other components of the meal.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and dishes as you cook to minimize the post-cooking cleanup time.
Use convenience products: Consider using pre-chopped vegetables or canned beans to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming adjustments later on.
One-pot meals: Opt for one-pot recipes to minimize the number of dishes and pans used, reducing cleanup time.
Leftovers: Embrace leftovers by making extra portions that can be enjoyed for future meals, saving time on cooking later.
Substitute Ingredients For Pasta Fagioli (Pasta and Beans) Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a delicate taste to the pasta fagioli.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative without compromising the flavor.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and a hint of licorice flavor, which can complement the dish as a substitute for celery.
carrot - Substitute with parsnip: Parsnips have a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor than carrots, adding a unique twist to the pasta fagioli.
cannellini beans - Substitute with navy beans: Navy beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable alternative to cannellini beans in this recipe.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Using crushed tomatoes can provide a chunkier texture and a more intense tomato flavor to the pasta fagioli.
bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can add a subtle earthy and floral flavor, serving as a suitable replacement for bay leaf in the recipe.
basil - Substitute with marjoram: Marjoram has a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor than basil, offering a unique herbaceous note to the pasta fagioli.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can provide a fresh and citrusy flavor, adding a vibrant twist to the dish as a substitute for parsley.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can replace oregano with its earthy and slightly minty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the pasta fagioli.
fat free chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian-friendly alternative, providing a rich and savory base for the pasta fagioli.
ditalini pasta - Substitute with small elbow macaroni: Small elbow macaroni has a similar size and shape, making it a suitable substitute for ditalini pasta in the recipe.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino romano cheese offers a slightly sharper and saltier flavor, serving as a delicious alternative to parmesan cheese for topping the pasta fagioli.
How to Serve Pasta Fagioli for Maximum Appeal
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pasta fagioli, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Ensure that the pasta and beans are evenly distributed, and use a clean, white plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and basil. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a pop of flavor.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the presentation, such as a delicate parmesan crisp or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs. This adds complexity and interest to the dish.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Aim for clean lines and carefully arranged elements to demonstrate attention to detail.
Highlight the pasta: Showcase the ditalini pasta by arranging it in a visually appealing manner, ensuring it is the focal point of the dish while still complemented by the beans and flavorful broth.
Use high-quality parmesan: Opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese and present it tableside using a fine grater for a luxurious touch that adds a rich, savory aroma to the dish.
Consider the vessel: Select a sophisticated, shallow bowl to serve the pasta fagioli. The choice of vessel can enhance the overall presentation and elevate the dining experience.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pasta Fagioli
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for making sauces and boiling liquids.
- Wooden spoon: A cooking utensil with a long handle, typically made of wood, used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, puree, or emulsify food and other substances.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used to drain liquids from food.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
- Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for sautéing, frying, and searing food.
- Tongs: A kitchen tool consisting of two arms joined by a hinge, used for picking up and manipulating food.
- Grater: A kitchen utensil with a rough surface used to shred or grate ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or spices.
How To Store and Freeze Pasta Fagioli for Later
- Allow the pasta fagioli to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
- When ready to reheat, place the desired portion in a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin out the soup if it has thickened during storage.
- For freezing, transfer the cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen pasta fagioli, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, transfer the thawed soup to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add some additional chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- If you plan on freezing the soup, it's recommended to cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup when reheating. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during the freezing and reheating process.
- Alternatively, you can freeze the soup without the pasta and cook the pasta fresh when you're ready to serve the reheated soup.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover pasta fagioli to a saucepan and add a splash of chicken broth or water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and the pasta is tender. If the soup becomes too thick, add more liquid as needed.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of leftover pasta fagioli in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to help maintain the soup's consistency. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the soup is heated through and the pasta is tender.
Slow cooker method: transfer the leftover pasta fagioli to a slow cooker. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water if needed to maintain the desired consistency. Cover and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until the soup is heated through and the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover pasta fagioli to an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the soup is heated through and the pasta is tender. Stir the soup halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Regardless of the reheating method chosen, be sure to taste the pasta fagioli and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. If the pasta has absorbed too much liquid and become mushy, you may need to add more chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency. Garnish with fresh parmesan cheese and enjoy your reheated pasta fagioli!
Random Fact about Pasta Fagioli
Pasta fagioli is a traditional Italian dish that originated as a peasant food. It was a simple and affordable meal made with ingredients that were readily available, such as beans and pasta. The dish has evolved over time and is now enjoyed in various forms around the world. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Is Pasta Fagioli an Affordable Meal for Home Cooking?
The cost-effectiveness of this pasta fagioli recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as cannellini beans, tomato sauce, and ditalini pasta, are affordable and readily available. The dish provides a hearty and satisfying meal for a family of four. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is Pasta Fagioli Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pasta fagioli recipe is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to its nutrient-dense ingredients:
- Cannellini beans provide a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber
- Vegetables like onion, garlic, celery, and carrot offer essential vitamins and minerals
- Tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers
- The use of fat-free chicken broth keeps the sodium content in check
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Opt for whole grain pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
- Reduce the amount of pasta used and increase the proportion of beans and vegetables for a more balanced meal
- Consider using low-sodium tomato sauce and chicken broth to further reduce the sodium content
- Add more leafy greens, such as spinach or kale, to boost the vitamin and mineral content of the dish
- Replace the parmesan cheese topping with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, low-fat alternative that still provides a cheesy flavor
Editor's Opinion: Why Pasta Fagioli is a Must-Try Recipe
This pasta fagioli recipe is a classic Italian comfort dish that combines the heartiness of beans and pasta with the rich flavors of tomatoes and herbs. The use of cannellini beans, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of herbs creates a robust and satisfying flavor profile. The addition of ditalini pasta adds a delightful texture, making it a complete and fulfilling meal. The recipe's simplicity and traditional approach make it a timeless favorite, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Buon appetito!
Enhance Your Pasta Fagioli (Pasta and Beans) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Pasta Fagioli
Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Pasta Fagioli Perfectly
Why trust this Pasta Fagioli (Pasta and Beans) Recipe:
This recipe is a trusted classic, using authentic Italian ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The combination of cannellini beans and ditalini pasta creates a hearty and satisfying dish. The use of fresh herbs like basil and parsley enhances the flavors, while the addition of parmesan cheese provides a rich and savory finish. The step-by-step instructions ensure a successful outcome, and the inclusion of fat-free chicken broth adds depth without compromising on health. With a balance of flavors and nutrients, this recipe is a reliable choice for a comforting and delicious meal.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Pasta E Fagioli Recipe
Slow Cooker Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe
Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe
Easy Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Chicken and Chard Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Pasta e Fagioli with Sausage Recipe
Instant Pot Pasta e Fagioli Recipe
Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli) Recipe
Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans) Recipe
Classic Pasta e Fagioli Recipe
Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli) Recipe
