There’s something magical about a bowl of pasta fagioli that instantly transports you to a cozy Italian trattoria. Picture this: the aroma of simmering garlic and herbs fills your kitchen, while tender pasta dances in a rich, savory broth. It’s the kind of comfort food that wraps around you like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings where laughter mingled with the clinking of silverware. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elaborate holiday feast, pasta fagioli brings everyone together for hearty bites and happy memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious pasta fagioli is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors create an inviting aroma that fills your home
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, impressing family and friends alike
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite beans or vegetables, this dish makes meal planning effortless
Last Sunday, I whipped up this dish for my friends, and their delighted reactions were priceless. They went back for seconds—and thirds—leaving not a single drop in the pot!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; it’s essential for sautéing the aromatics.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; finely chop it to enhance the overall flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide robust flavor; use at least three for that aromatic kick.
Carrots: Diced carrots add natural sweetness and color; choose firm ones for the best texture.
Celery: Chopped celery contributes crunch and freshness; opt for stalks that are crisp and vibrant.
Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a smooth consistency; they bring acidity that balances the dish perfectly.
Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini work best; they soak up the broth beautifully.
Canned Beans: Cannellini or kidney beans provide protein; rinse them well before adding to ensure optimal flavor.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavors.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs adds authenticity; choose a high-quality mix for better results.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Parmesan Cheese (optional): Freshly grated cheese adds richness; sprinkle it on top before serving for an extra touch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes will do.
Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in minced garlic and cook until aromatic—just 30 seconds! Then, add crushed tomatoes along with some vegetable broth and let it simmer gently.
Season It Up!: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow these flavors to meld as you continue simmering everything together for about 10-15 minutes.
Add Pasta and Beans : Toss in your chosen small pasta along with rinsed canned beans. Increase the heat slightly until boiling, then reduce back down to medium-low heat.
Simmer Until Done : Let everything cook together until the pasta is tender—this usually takes around 10 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom!
Serve It Hot : Ladle your beautiful pasta fagioli into bowls and finish with freshly grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy every spoonful!
Cooking should be an adventure filled with joy—and this pasta fagioli recipe captures that spirit beautifully! Enjoy making it as much as you will savor eating it!
You Must Know
- Pasta fagioli is more than just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- Its comforting aroma and rich flavors make it perfect for any gathering, especially when the weather turns chilly
- Plus, it’s an excellent way to use pantry staples!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add beans and tomatoes. Cook the pasta separately for best texture before combining everything together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out beans or add leafy greens like kale for extra nutrition. Experiment with spices for a unique twist that suits your palate!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to restore consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavors, let the dish simmer longer
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning
- Fresh herbs added at the end brighten up the flavors beautifully!
Sharing this dish with friends always brings back memories of laughter around my dining table, where everyone fights for seconds!
FAQ
What is pasta fagioli?
Pasta fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta and beans.
Can I make pasta fagioli vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip any meat and use vegetable broth instead.
How can I thicken my pasta fagioli?
Blend some of the beans into the soup for a creamier texture without adding cream.
Irresistible Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Experience the warmth of Italian comfort food with this delightful pasta fagioli. This hearty soup combines tender pasta, protein-rich beans, and vibrant vegetables in a savory broth, making it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, you’ll find this dish warms both the heart and the home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic; cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Add ditalini pasta and cannellini beans; increase heat until boiling then reduce to medium-low.
- Cook until pasta is tender (about 10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
