If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying dish that warms the soul, look no further than this Pasta e Fagioli Soup. This Italian classic, often served at the famous Olive Garden, combines pasta and beans in a rich tomato broth, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With the recipe for Pasta Fagioli Soup in hand, you can recreate this beloved dish at home, providing warmth and flavor that will impress your family and friends.
Imagine a bowl filled with tender pasta, hearty beans, and vibrant vegetables simmering in a delicious broth. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this Pasta Fagioli. This recipe is versatile enough to adapt based on what you have at home, whether you’re making it in a slow cooker for easy prep or on the stovetop for a quicker meal. It’s a garden soup that brings together the best of Italian cuisine.
This Pasta Fagioli Recipe is not just another soup; it’s a celebration of flavors that will transport you straight to Italy. The combination of fresh ingredients and savory broth creates a wholesome dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
What Makes Pasta e Fagioli Soup Special?
Pasta e Fagioli soup, often referred to as Pasta Fagioli, stands as a beloved emblem of Italian comfort food. This hearty dish combines the wholesome goodness of small pasta and cannellini beans, creating a rich tapestry of flavors that warms both the body and soul.
The base of this comforting soup is a savory tomato broth, infused with aromatic herbs such as oregano and basil. Each ingredient contributes to the overall depth of flavor, making this soup a satisfying choice for chilly evenings or as a starter at gatherings.
Ingredients That Bring Flavor to Life
The magic of Pasta e Fagioli lies in its simple yet robust ingredients. Starting with diced vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion, these provide a fresh crunch and sweetness that complements the beans and pasta beautifully.
Additionally, the use of cannellini beans adds a creamy texture, enriching the broth. Olive oil, garlic, and diced tomatoes work harmoniously to elevate the taste, making each bowl a delightful experience. And don’t forget the optional Parmesan cheese garnish, which adds a savory finish to every serving.
Cooking Methods for Every Preference
This Pasta Fagioli recipe offers flexibility, accommodating different cooking styles. Whether you prefer the traditional stovetop method for a quicker meal or a slow cooker for a fuss-free preparation, both methods yield delicious results.
For stovetop enthusiasts, sautéing the vegetables quickly unlocks their flavors, while the slow cooker allows for a longer meld of ingredients, developing a rich and flavorful broth that enhances the soup’s character over time.
The Experience of Serving Pasta e Fagioli
Serving Pasta e Fagioli soup transforms a simple meal into a warm dining experience. Picture a rustic table adorned with a bowl of steaming soup, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Alongside a slice of crusty bread and a dish of olive oil for dipping, the presentation is inviting and encourages sharing. This dish not only nourishes but also brings people together, evoking the communal spirit of Italian dining.
Adapting the Recipe for Personal Tastes
Another lovely aspect of Pasta e Fagioli is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the recipe based on personal preferences or what you have on hand. Adding leafy greens like spinach or kale not only boosts nutrition but also adds a touch of color to the dish.
Moreover, experimenting with different types of pasta can create unique textures, while varying the herbs and spices allows you to tailor the flavor profile. This versatility makes it a delightful option for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings.
Enjoying Every Spoonful
The experience of savoring Pasta e Fagioli is a celebration of comfort and flavor. Each spoonful brings together the rich tomato broth, tender pasta, and hearty beans, creating a satisfying blend that lingers on the palate.
As you indulge in this delightful Italian soup, you can appreciate the harmony of ingredients that come together to form a dish that is not only nourishing but also filled with warmth and love. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, relax, and enjoy the moment—one bowl at a time.
Delicious Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 can 15 oz cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta like ditalini or elbow
- 1 cup spinach or kale optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving optional
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are soft.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add pasta and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in spinach or kale, if using, near the end of cooking.
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls, top with grated Parmesan cheese (optional), and enjoy with crusty bread.
Notes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 240kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 36g