Pasta Fazool, also known as Pasta e Fagioli, is a traditional Italian dish that combines pasta and beans in a savory broth. It's a rustic, hearty meal that's perfect for cold winter nights or any time you need some comforting, soul-warming food. This recipe is packed with robust flavors from Italian sausage, onions, celery, tomato paste, and a mix of spices, then topped with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples, you might want to look out for Swiss chard, a leafy green vegetable similar to spinach and can be found in most supermarkets. If unavailable, you can substitute it with spinach or kale. The recipe also calls for Cannellini beans, a type of white bean popular in Italian cuisine for its creamy texture and delicate flavor. Lastly, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is used for its unique nutty and slightly salty flavor, but you can substitute with any hard, grating cheese if needed.
Ingredients for Making Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)
Olive oil: Used as a base for sautéing the sausage, celery, and onion to bring out their flavors.
Italian sausage: Adds a hearty and spicy flavor to the dish.
Celery: Provides a subtle, earthy flavor and a nice crunch.
Yellow onion: Gives the dish a sweet and savory flavor component.
Elbow macaroni: The pasta part of the dish, elbow macaroni is perfect as it holds up well in the soup.
Tomato paste: Gives the dish a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.
Chicken broth: The base of the soup, adds depth and flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Used for seasoning.
Red pepper flakes: Adds a bit of heat to the dish.
Oregano: A common Italian herb that enhances the flavor profile.
Swiss chard: Adds a nutritious, leafy component to the soup.
Cannellini beans: A type of white bean that adds creaminess and protein.
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: Adds a salty, nutty topping to the dish.
One reader, Lalo Estrada says:
This pasta fazool recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the combination of sausage, beans, and pasta is simply divine. It's easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in. I highly recommend trying it out - you won't be disappointed!
Key Techniques for Making Pasta e Fagioli
How to brown sausage: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage for about 5 minutes, breaking it into small pieces until it's browned.
How to cook pasta: Add the dry pasta to the skillet and cook and stir for 2 minutes until it's well coated with the sausage and oil.
How to simmer soup: After adding the broth and seasonings, bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring often.
How to check soup consistency: After simmering, check the consistency of the soup and add more broth if needed to achieve the desired thickness.
How to wilt chard: After rinsing the chard, add it to the soup and cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes until the leaves wilt.
How to cook beans: Stir in the white beans and continue cooking and stirring for another 4 or 5 minutes until the pasta is perfectly cooked.
How to serve: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the grated cheese. Serve topped with additional grated cheese if desired.
How To Make Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli)
Pasta fazool is a traditional Italian soup that means ‘pasta and beans.’ This hearty dish is put together with sausage, macaroni, chicken broth, and more.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tbspolive oil
- 12ozbulk Italian sausage,sweet
- 1stalkcelery,diced
- ½yellow onion,chopped
- ¾cupdry elbow macaroni
- ¼cuptomato paste
- 3cupschicken broth,or more as needed, divided
- salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
- ¼tspred pepper flakes,crushed, or to taste
- ¼tsporegano,dried
- 3cupsswiss chard,chopped
- 15ozcannellini beans,(white kidney beans – 1 can) drained
- ¼cupParmigiano-Reggiano cheese,(parmesan) grated, plus more for serving, or to taste
Instructions
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Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown sausage for about 5 minutes while breaking it into small pieces.
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Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced celery and chopped onion.
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Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the onions are translucent. Add the dry pasta.
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Cook and stir for 2 minutes.
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Stir in the tomato paste for 2 to 3 minutes until evenly distributed.
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Add 3 cups of broth. Raise the heat to high and bring to a simmer. Add the salt, black pepper, pepper flakes, and oregano.
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When the soup comes to a boil, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring often.
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Check the soup’s consistency and add more broth, if needed.
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Place the chopped chard in a bowl. Cover with cold water and rinse the leaves.
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Any grit will fall to the bottom of the bowl. Transfer the chard to a colander to drain briefly.
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Add to the soup. Cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes until the leaves wilt.
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Stir in the white beans. Continue cooking and stirring for another 4 or 5 minutes until the pasta is perfectly cooked.
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Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheese.
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Serve topped with grated cheese, if desired.
Recipe Notes
This recipe makes enough for 2 large portions or 4 smaller ones.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1765.57kcal
- Fat: 72.00g
- Saturated Fat: 25.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 33.11g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.58g
- Carbohydrates: 185.70g
- Fiber: 37.45g
- Sugar: 17.64g
- Protein: 97.95g
- Cholesterol: 152.71mg
- Sodium: 2444.16mg
- Calcium: 849.35mg
- Potassium: 5407.87mg
- Iron: 28.05mg
- Vitamin A: 238.95µg
- Vitamin C: 30.51mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Pasta Fazool
When preparing the swiss chard, instead of chopping it, try tearing it by hand. This will help to preserve the natural structure of the leaves and prevent them from becoming too wilted during cooking. Additionally, tearing the leaves can help to release more flavor into the soup.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Pasta Fazool
Prep ahead: Chop and measure ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes and cook everything in one pot for easy cleanup.
Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and slow cookers to simplify meal prep.
Batch cooking: Prepare large quantities of food and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals later.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the instructions to ensure efficient and successful cooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli) 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.
bulk Italian sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to Italian sausage, providing a lighter option while still adding flavor to the dish.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel offers a similar crunchy texture and a hint of licorice flavor, complementing the other ingredients in the recipe.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onion can be used as a substitute for yellow onion, providing a slightly milder flavor while still adding depth to the dish.
elbow macaroni - Substitute with ditalini: Ditalini pasta is a suitable substitute for elbow macaroni in pasta e fagioli, as it holds up well in soups and stews.
tomato paste - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for tomato paste, adding a slightly different texture while still providing the tomato flavor.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a vegetarian alternative while still adding depth of flavor to the dish.
swiss chard - Substitute with spinach: Spinach can be used as a substitute for Swiss chard, offering a similar leafy green component to the dish.
cannellini beans - Substitute with great northern beans: Great northern beans can be used as a substitute for cannellini beans, providing a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.
parmigiano-reggiano cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmigiano-Reggiano, offering a slightly sharper and saltier flavor to the dish.
How to Beautifully Present Pasta Fazool
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pasta fazool, focus on creating an elegant and refined plating. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. Ensure that the pasta, sausage, and vegetables are evenly distributed for a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped Italian parsley or basil to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. The vibrant green hues will contrast beautifully against the rich, earthy tones of the pasta and beans, elevating the visual appeal of the dish.
Incorporate artisanal bread: Serve the pasta fazool alongside slices of crusty, artisanal bread. Consider toasting the bread and drizzling it with extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt to create a delightful accompaniment that complements the heartiness of the dish.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Arrange the pasta, sausage, beans, and chard thoughtfully to create a visually stunning presentation that showcases the artistry and attention to detail in your culinary execution.
Emphasize the cheese: Grate a generous amount of parmigiano-reggiano cheese over the top of the pasta fazool just before serving. The cheese will add a luxurious touch to the dish and create a visually appealing contrast against the other ingredients.
Essential Tools for Making Pasta e Fagioli
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with holes in it used for draining foods such as pasta or washing vegetables.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, or spreading foods.
- Cutting board: A durable board on which food is cut and prepared.
- Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting or slicing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
- Stove: A cooking appliance used for applying heat to the bottom of pots and pans.
- Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing and stirring ingredients.
- Soup pot: A large, deep cooking pot used for making soups and stews.
- Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate foods into fine pieces.
- Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl for serving soups and stews.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms that are joined at one end, used for picking up and manipulating food.
- Cheese grater: A tool designed for grating cheese into fine pieces.
- Strainer: A kitchen tool used for separating liquids from solids.
- Wooden spoon: A spoon made from wood, often used for mixing and stirring hot foods.
- Soup ladle: A large, deep spoon with a long handle, used for serving soups and stews.
Storing and Freezing Pasta e Fagioli
- Let the pasta fazool 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 3-4 days in the fridge.
- When reheating refrigerated pasta fazool, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the consistency, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits.
- To freeze the soup, follow these steps:
- Transfer the cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Place them in the freezer, laying the bags flat for easier storage.
- Pasta fazool can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- When you're ready to enjoy the frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat the thawed soup in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add some additional broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- If you plan on freezing the soup, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to soften when reheated.
- Alternatively, you can cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup when reheating to maintain its texture.
How To Reheat Pasta Fazool Leftovers
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover pasta fazool 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 broth or water as needed.
Microwave method: place the desired amount of leftover pasta fazool 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 fazool 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, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and the pasta is tender.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover pasta fazool 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, be sure to taste the pasta fazool and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the pasta has absorbed too much liquid and become mushy, you may need to add more chicken broth or water to revive the texture. Additionally, a sprinkle of fresh grated cheese and a drizzle of olive oil can help enhance the flavors of the reheated soup.
Interesting Fact About Pasta Fazool
The pasta e fagioli recipe is a traditional Italian dish that originated as a peasant food. It was a simple and affordable meal made with inexpensive ingredients such as beans, pasta, and vegetables. This dish has been enjoyed for generations and has become a staple in Italian cuisine. It is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for cold winter days. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish makes it a favorite among many Italian families.
Is Making Pasta e Fagioli at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this pasta fazool (pasta e fagioli) recipe is quite high. With affordable ingredients like pasta, Italian sausage, cannellini beans, and swiss chard, this dish offers a hearty and satisfying meal for a household. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15, making it a budget-friendly option. In terms of taste and nutrition, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10, making it a great choice for a delicious and economical family meal.
Is Pasta e Fagioli Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pasta fazool recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:
- Nutritious vegetables like celery, onion, and Swiss chard
- Fiber-rich cannellini beans
- Tomato paste, which provides beneficial lycopene
- Modest portion of whole-grain pasta
However, there are some less healthy components:
- High-fat Italian sausage
- Considerable amount of sodium from the broth, cheese, and sausage
- Refined grains in the elbow macaroni
- Saturated fat content from the sausage and cheese
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Opt for a leaner protein source, such as ground turkey or chicken sausage, to reduce the saturated fat content
- Increase the proportion of vegetables to boost the fiber and nutrient density of the dish
- Use whole-grain or legume-based pasta to enhance the fiber content and provide a slower release of carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of added salt and choose low-sodium broth to help control the overall sodium levels
- Incorporate additional herbs and spices to maintain flavor while cutting back on the need for excessive salt
- Use a smaller amount of high-quality, flavorful cheese to maintain the taste while reducing the saturated fat and sodium content
By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting pasta fazool into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your taste buds.
Editor's Opinion on This Pasta e Fagioli Recipe
This pasta e fagioli recipe is a delightful blend of Italian flavors. The combination of Italian sausage, cannellini beans, and swiss chard creates a rich and hearty dish. The use of tomato paste and chicken broth adds depth to the soup, while the addition of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese provides a savory finish. The recipe's simplicity makes it accessible for home cooks, and the balance of flavors ensures a satisfying and comforting meal. Buon appetito!
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Why trust this Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli) Recipe:
This recipe offers a traditional and authentic Italian experience, featuring flavorful Italian sausage and cannellini beans for a hearty and satisfying meal. The combination of swiss chard and celery adds a nutritious and vibrant touch, while the use of parmigiano-reggiano cheese enhances the dish with its rich and savory taste. With the perfect balance of seasonings and a comforting broth base, this pasta e fagioli recipe promises to deliver a delightful and comforting dining experience.
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