Pasta Fagioli
Pasta Fagioli, or pasta e fagioli, is a classic Italian dish that perfectly embodies comfort food. This hearty soup combines tender pasta and nutritious beans in a savory broth, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Ideal for chilly evenings, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or a starter, Pasta Fagioli is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of Pasta Fagioli contains approximately 300 calories, 15g protein, 10g fat, 45g carbohydrates, and 12g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the cannellini and kidney beans.
- Season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- If desired, add more broth for a soupier consistency.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to customize your Pasta Fagioli, you can substitute ditalini with any small pasta like elbow macaroni. For a meatier dish, add diced pancetta or sausage. You can also use fresh herbs like basil for added flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Pasta Fagioli pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a glass of red wine for a delightful Italian dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Pasta Fagioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just add a bit of water when reheating to restore the desired consistency.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Adjust seasoning gradually; taste as you go.
- Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Don’t skip the cheese; it adds essential flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for enhanced aroma.
- Soak dried beans overnight for better texture.
- Experiment with spices like chili flakes for heat.
- Make it a day ahead for deeper flavors.
FAQs
What is the origin of Pasta Fagioli?
Pasta Fagioli originated in Italy, particularly in the regions of Campania and Veneto. It is a rustic dish that showcases the simplicity of Italian cooking, focusing on beans and pasta as staple ingredients.
Can I make Pasta Fagioli vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth and omit any meat ingredients. The dish will still be hearty and flavorful with just beans and vegetables.
How can I thicken Pasta Fagioli?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamier texture.
Is Pasta Fagioli healthy?
Yes, it is a nutritious dish packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. The combination of beans and vegetables makes it a well-rounded meal option.
Can I add meat to Pasta Fagioli?
Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or pancetta for a richer, meatier flavor. Just sauté the meat with the vegetables at the beginning.
Conclusion
Pasta Fagioli is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it perfect for family meals or gatherings. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy this Italian classic any day of the week.
Pasta Fagioli
Ingredients
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 can 15 oz cannellini beans
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the cannellini and kidney beans.
- Season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- If desired, add more broth for a soupier consistency.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.