Zuppa di fagioli, a traditional Italian bean soup, is a wholesome dish loved for its rustic flavors and nourishing qualities. With tender beans, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this comforting recipe captures the essence of Italian home cooking. This soup offers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful, perfect for chilly evenings or a simple family dinner. It’s hearty yet healthy, making it a versatile meal that fits into any lifestyle, from quick weeknight cooking to slow Sunday meals.
Why You Will Love the Zuppa di Fagioli Soup Recipe
This rustic Italian soup is a timeless recipe that combines flavor, health, and comfort in one bowl.
- Rich, hearty flavor: Slow-simmered beans, vegetables, and herbs create a savory and deeply satisfying taste.
- Wholesome nutrition: Packed with plant protein, fiber, and vitamins, this soup fuels your body while being light and healthy.
- Simple ingredients: Everyday pantry staples make it easy to prepare without fuss.
- Authentic Italian tradition: Brings classic Tuscan comfort food straight to your table.
- Versatile meal: Perfect as a starter, a main dish, or paired with crusty bread.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make authentic zuppa di fagioli, gather a few simple, fresh, and pantry-friendly ingredients that work beautifully together to create a flavorful, hearty soup.
- Cannellini beans – 2 cups cooked (or 1 can, drained)
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Onion – 1 medium, chopped
- Carrot – 1 medium, diced
- Celery – 1 stalk, diced
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Vegetable broth – 6 cups
- Fresh rosemary – 1 sprig
- Red pepper flakes – pinch
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
How to Cook zuppa di fagioli soup
Making zuppa di fagioli is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to achieve a rich, nourishing, and authentically Italian soup.
Step 1: Sauté the base
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic, stirring gently over medium heat. Cook for about five minutes, until vegetables soften and release their aroma, creating a flavorful foundation for your soup.
Step 2: Simmer the beans
Add cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and rosemary. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cooking for twenty minutes, so the beans become creamy and the broth absorbs herbal depth and richness.
Step 3: Season and serve
Remove rosemary sprig and taste for balance. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Ladle soup into bowls and serve hot, optionally with crusty bread or grilled crostini for extra comfort.
Zuppa di Fagioli
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Add beans, vegetable broth, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until beans are tender and flavors meld.
- Remove rosemary sprig, taste, and season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Serve hot with crusty bread or crostini.
Notes
Serving Tips for zuppa di fagioli soup
Zuppa di fagioli is best enjoyed with thoughtful yet straightforward accompaniments that highlight its rustic charm and elevate its flavor.
- Serve with toasted crostini or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top for extra richness.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano for a savory finish.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
- Pair with a light green salad and a glass of red wine to create a balanced, traditional Italian dining experience at home.
Nutritional Benefits of zuppa di fagioli soup
This Italian bean soup is as nourishing as it is delicious. Cannellini beans provide plant-based protein, keeping you energized while promoting muscle health. They are also packed with dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Vitamins and minerals such as folate, potassium, and iron strengthen overall wellness, boost circulation, and support heart health. Olive oil contributes antioxidants and healthy fats that protect cardiovascular function. Combined with fresh vegetables, this soup delivers a nutrient-dense, low-fat, and satisfying meal. It’s ideal for anyone who enjoys comfort food while eating healthfully.
Conclusion
Zuppa di fagioli is a rustic bean soup that captures the heart of Italian home cooking. Simple ingredients, rich flavors, and nourishing qualities make it perfect for any occasion. This recipe offers comfort and authenticity, whether enjoyed as a light starter or a filling main dish. Make it part of your weekly meals and discover how deliciously wholesome traditional Italian cuisine can be.