Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a delightful Italian dish that combines pasta and beans in a savory broth. Perfect for any occasion, this hearty soup not only warms the soul but also satisfies the appetite. Made with simple ingredients you likely have on hand, it’s both comforting and nutritious. Plus, with our secret flavor booster, you’ll elevate your dish to a new level of deliciousness that your family will crave!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this soup can be on your table in just over an hour.
• Packed with Flavor – The combination of herbs, vegetables, and the secret Parmesan rind adds depth to the broth that’s simply irresistible.
• Nutritious and Filling – With beans and vegetables, this soup is rich in protein and fiber, making it a wholesome meal option.
• Versatile Meal – Enjoy it as a main course or as a starter; it pairs well with homemade garlic breadsticks for a complete dinner.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love this comforting bowl of goodness, perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make Pasta e Fagioli Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Immersion blender (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Immersion blender – Makes blending easy, allowing you to achieve your desired soup consistency without transferring to a blender.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1/2 cup olive oil (divided; 1/4 cup for cooking, 1/4 cup reserved for serving)
• 1 cup onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup carrot (diced)
• 1 cup celery (diced)
• 1 cup potato (diced)
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt (to be sprinkled in bit by bit during each cooking step)

For the Soup

• 15 ounces cannellini beans (drained)
• 14.5 ounces canned tomatoes (diced, drained)
• 1 quart cold water
• 1 quart beef broth
• Parmesan rind

For Finishing

• 8 ounces pasta (ditallini or elbow macaroni)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup parmesan cheese (grated; divided into 1/4 cup for cooking and 3/4 cup reserved for serving)

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until just translucent. Season them with a sprinkle of salt as they cook.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Continue sautéing for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Remember to season again with another sprinkle of salt.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans, Water, Broth, Salt, and Pepper

Toss in diced tomatoes along with the drained cannellini beans. Pour in the cold water and beef broth. Season with remaining salt and pepper.

Step 4: Simmer with Parmesan Rind

Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat. Add a Parmesan rind to the pot and allow it to simmer for 45-60 minutes.

Step 5: Blend (Kind Of)

After simmering, remove the rind from the soup. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the mix until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta in the Soup

Bring the soup back to a boil. Add uncooked pasta into the pot and cook for about 10 minutes until tender.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Turn off the heat once done cooking pasta. Stir in butter along with grated Parmesan cheese until melted through.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle with reserved olive oil and sprinkle freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano over each serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty and delicious dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will complement the flavors of this classic Italian soup.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Breadsticks: Serve warm garlic breadsticks alongside the soup for dipping and savoring every bite.
• Sourdough Bread: A slice of crusty sourdough bread pairs perfectly with the rich, savory broth.

With Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and depth of flavor.

As a Main Course

• Complete Meal: Serve the soup as a main dish by adding more pasta or beans, making it even heartier and satisfying.

With Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mixed green salad on the side can balance the warmth of the soup with its crisp texture.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Making a perfect Pasta e Fagioli Soup requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Here are some recommendations to enhance your cooking process.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Add salt bit by bit during cooking to ensure balanced seasoning without overpowering the dish.
• Blend Wisely: Only partially blend the soup to maintain some texture while helping thicken it.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For a less mushy pasta, you can cook it separately and add it just before serving.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Caprese Salad: A vibrant salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of the soup.
3. Focaccia Bread: This soft, olive oil-rich bread is perfect for sopping up every last drop of soup.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, and cheeses creates a delightful appetizer before your main dish.
5. Crispy Polenta Fries: These golden fries offer a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soup’s creaminess.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Baked peppers filled with grains or vegetables bring an added layer of flavor and make for a hearty side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta e Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Not seasoning properly – Seasoning in layers enhances flavor. Add a sprinkle of salt at each step instead of all at once.
• Overcooking vegetables – Sauté vegetables until just softened. Overcooking can lead to mushy textures; aim for tender but firm veggies.
• Ignoring the broth quality – The broth is the soup’s backbone. Use high-quality beef broth or homemade stock for the best flavor.
• Skipping the blending step – Partially blending the soup creates a creamy texture without losing all the chunky goodness. Don’t skip this step!
• Cooking pasta separately – Adding uncooked pasta directly into the soup allows it to absorb flavors as it cooks. This keeps it from becoming soggy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pasta e Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop – Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

How do you make Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

To make Pasta e Fagioli Soup, sauté onions and garlic, add vegetables, beans, tomatoes, and broth, then simmer and blend partially before adding pasta.

Can I use different types of pasta in Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Yes! While ditalini or elbow macaroni works best, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes you have on hand.

What can I add to enhance flavor in my Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. A Parmesan rind adds depth during cooking.

Is Pasta e Fagioli Soup healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with vegetables and beans, making it nutritious. You can also customize it by adding more greens or using whole grain pasta.

How long does it take to prepare Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

The total time is about 60 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and satisfying meal option!

Final Thoughts

Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not just comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or beans. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite—try it tonight!