Pasta e Fagiole

Pasta e Fagiole is a comforting Italian dish made of pasta and beans, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This hearty soup is packed with flavor, featuring tender pasta and nutritious beans simmered in a rich broth. Its simplicity and robust taste make it an excellent choice for any occasion, be it a cozy weeknight meal or a special gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from the beans and turkey, this dish offers a satisfying meal that nourishes your body.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever small pasta you have on hand. You can customize the beans or add vegetables to suit your taste.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of garlic, herbs, and good quality olive oil creates a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for later.

Tools and Preparation

To make Pasta e Fagiole, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes preparing this dish easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy pot: Ideal for evenly cooking your ingredients without burning them, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables, making prep time quicker.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while giving you better control over mixing.

Ingredients

A traditional Italian dish made of pasta and beans that was born out of peasant cooking.

For the Base

• Good Quality Olive Oil
• 3 Tablespoons of Olive Oil
• 2 Large Garlic Cloves, Minced
• 1 Large Carrot, Finely Chopped
• 2 Celery Stalks, Finely Chopped
• 1 Small Onion, Finely Chopped
• 1/3 Cup Finely Chopped turkey strips or Turkey Bacon (Optional)

For the Soup

• 1 (28 Ounce) Can Chopped Tomatoes – I Use Mutti Brand
• 1 Quart Chicken Broth
• 2 Cups Water

For the Pasta

• 2 (14 Ounce) Tins Cannellini Beans (or Equivalent, Prepared From Dried)
• 2 Cups Small Pasta (Tubettini or Ditalini)

For Garnish

• Shaved Parmesan or Pecorino Romano Cheese
• Fresh Chopped Parsley
• Salt & Pepper
• Dash Of Red Pepper Flakes

How to Make Pasta e Fagiole

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, turkey strips (if using), and celery. Cook until they are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic into the pot and cook for another minute until it becomes aromatic.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, cannellini beans, chopped tomatoes, and water into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Puree Optional Mixture

(Optional) Remove a few scoops of the bean mixture from the pot. Use a blender or fork to puree or mash them slightly before returning them to the pot. This step helps thicken your soup.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Seasonings

Add in your small pasta along with chopped parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as desired. Stir thoroughly.

Step 6: Cook Pasta Al Dente

Continue cooking until the pasta reaches an al dente texture according to package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a drizzle of olive oil, shaved cheese, and additional chopped parsley for garnish.

Enjoy this delightful Pasta e Fagiole that brings warmth and comfort to every bite!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagiole

Pasta e Fagiole is a hearty and comforting dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to enhance its flavor or complement it with sides, here are some serving suggestions.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Shaved Cheese: Top each bowl with shaved Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a rich flavor.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances the taste.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread adds a savory crunch to each bite.

Serve with Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing pairs well with the hearty beans and pasta.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagiole

Perfecting your Pasta e Fagiole elevates this comforting dish even further. Here are some tips to achieve the best results.

• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Start with good quality olive oil for sautéing; it enhances the overall flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should have a slight bite for the best texture.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some beans; for a thinner soup, add more broth or water.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you season; adjusting salt and pepper gradually ensures balanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagiole

Complementing your Pasta e Fagiole with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots flavored with garlic and herbs make an excellent addition to any Italian meal.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized pairs beautifully with the soup.
3. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
4. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of marinated olives, peppers, and artichokes provides variety and flavor.
5. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia topped with herbs is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
6. Polenta Cakes: Crispy polenta cakes are a delicious side that adds texture to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make common mistakes when preparing Pasta e Fagiole that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to avoid these pitfalls.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing the vegetables before adding other ingredients enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for a flavorful base.
• Ignoring seasonings: Season your broth and beans adequately. A lack of seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Taste and adjust as you go!
• Using overcooked pasta: Undercook your pasta slightly, as it will continue cooking in the soup. This helps maintain the perfect texture.
• Not pureeing enough beans: Pureeing some of the beans creates a creamy texture. If you skip this step, your soup may be too brothy instead of creamy.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness to Pasta e Fagiole. Don’t omit this ingredient; it elevates the overall taste.
• Not letting it rest: Allow your soup to sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period lets flavors meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Pasta e Fagiole

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagiole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium heat, stirring often until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pasta e Fagiole that you might find helpful.

What is Pasta e Fagiole?

Pasta e Fagiole is a traditional Italian dish made with pasta and beans, typically featuring rich flavors from vegetables and herbs.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! While cannellini beans are traditional, you can experiment with other varieties like navy or kidney beans.

How can I customize my Pasta e Fagiole?

You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini or adjust the pasta shape based on your preference.

Is Pasta e Fagiole healthy?

This dish offers a good balance of carbohydrates from pasta and protein from beans, making it a nutritious option when enjoyed in moderation.

Can I make Pasta e Fagiole vegan?

Absolutely! Skip any meat additions and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegan version.

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagiole is not only comforting but also versatile! This dish allows room for creativity with ingredients while still delivering authentic Italian flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty meal or a light appetizer, we encourage you to try making this delightful soup at home!