Easy Pasta Fagioli

Typical Italian hearty winter fare done easy! This Easy Pasta Fagioli is perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends and family. Its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a comforting dish suitable for various occasions. With a simple preparation, this recipe highlights the delightful combination of pasta and beans, offering both nutrition and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with nutritious ingredients like beans and vegetables, this dish will keep you full and satisfied.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a starter or main course, it complements a variety of sides such as crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Flavorful Herbs: The use of dried parsley and basil elevates the taste, giving it an authentic Italian flair.
• Nut-Free Option: This recipe is completely nut-free, making it suitable for those with allergies.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking this Easy Pasta Fagioli even simpler. Gather your kitchen essentials to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Large pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for sautéing vegetables evenly, allowing for maximum flavor extraction.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely and efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it quick to dice vegetables, saving you time during prep.
• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta and combining all ingredients without overflow.

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Ingredients

Vegetables

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 carrot diced
• 2 stalk celery diced
• 2 thin slice onion diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic chopped

Base Ingredients

• 1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
• 2 14 ounce chicken broth

Seasonings

• freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves

Proteins & Pasta

• 2 15 ounce cannellini beans drained and rinsed
• 3 cups ditalini pasta

How to Make Easy Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in chopped garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Base

1. Stir in tomato sauce, chicken broth, freshly ground black pepper, dried parsley, and dried basil.
2. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes to develop flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. In a separate large pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Add ditalini pasta; cook for about 8 minutes or until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta once cooked.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add drained beans to the sauce mixture; simmer for an additional few minutes to heat through.
2. When the pasta is done cooking, stir it into the sauce and bean mixture until well combined.

This simple yet satisfying Easy Pasta Fagioli is ready to serve! Enjoy it hot with your favorite toppings like grated cheese if desired, alongside crusty bread or salad for a complete meal experience.

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting dish that warms the soul, making it perfect for any gathering or family meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of crusty bread alongside your Easy Pasta Fagioli for dipping. The bread absorbs the rich flavors and adds a satisfying texture.

Topped with Cheese

• Finish each bowl with a generous grating of Romano or Parmesan cheese. This adds creaminess and elevates the savory taste of the dish.

Accompanied by a Fresh Salad

• Pair with a light salad made from mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the hearty soup.

In Individual Bowls

• For an elegant presentation, serve Easy Pasta Fagioli in individual bowls. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their portions without needing to ladle from a larger pot.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli

Creating a delicious Easy Pasta Fagioli is simple with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible to enhance the flavors in your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. A dash more pepper can make all the difference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your ditalini pasta remains slightly firm when cooked. It will continue to soften when mixed with the sauce.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer longer than 20 minutes if you have time. This deepens the flavors and melds the ingredients beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli

Complementing your Easy Pasta Fagioli with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter is perfect for scooping up soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice and spices add heartiness to your table.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese offers comfort and pairs wonderfully with soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables enhances your Italian theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Pasta Fagioli, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Skipping the sauté: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a dull flavor. Ensure you take the time to soften them before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long will make it mushy. Aim for al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland soup. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Not rinsing canned beans: Leaving excess sodium on cannellini beans can impact health and taste. Always rinse them thoroughly before adding to your dish.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality chicken broth can make your soup taste flat. Opt for a flavorful broth for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Easy Pasta Fagioli in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Easy Pasta Fagioli, check out these common inquiries.

What is Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting Italian soup made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s perfect for chilly days!

Can I customize Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini or adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

How do I make Easy Pasta Fagioli vegetarian?

Swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth and ensure any added toppings are plant-based. The recipe remains delicious without meat!

How long does Easy Pasta Fagioli last in the fridge?

Easy Pasta Fagioli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when kept in an airtight container.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While ditalini is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape you prefer or have on hand.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta Fagioli is not only hearty and satisfying but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or spices to suit your family’s tastes. Give this easy recipe a try; it’s perfect for a cozy dinner!