Description
Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a classic Italian dish that warms the heart and soul. This hearty soup features a delightful combination of pasta and beans simmered in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for any weeknight dinner, it’s made with accessible ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The addition of fresh vegetables and herbs elevates the flavors, while a touch of Parmesan adds a creamy richness that will keep your family coming back for more. Enjoy it as a filling main course or a comforting starter paired with crusty bread. This nutritious soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
Ingredients
- 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)
- 15 ounces cannellini beans (drained)
- 14.5 ounces canned tomatoes (diced, drained)
- 1 quart cold water
- 1 quart beef broth
- Parmesan rind
- 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)
Instructions
- Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until translucent, seasoning with salt.
- Add diced carrots, celery, and potato; sauté for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Stir in canned tomatoes and drained cannellini beans, then add cold water and beef broth along with remaining salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil then add Parmesan rind; reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes.
- Remove the rind and partially blend the soup to desired consistency using an immersion blender.
- Bring back to a boil, add uncooked pasta, and cook for about 10 minutes until tender.
- Finish by stirring in butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted through.
- Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and extra cheese on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano during cooking. You can substitute different types of pasta based on what you have available. For a thicker texture, allow the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving.