Pasta e Fagioli soup is a traditional Italian dish that is both hearty and flavorful. The name of the dish translates to “pasta and beans,” and that’s exactly what you’ll find in this soup. It typically includes a base of sautéed onions, garlic, and celery, along with diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, and small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbows. The soup is finished off with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
This soup is a perfect comfort food on a chilly day and is incredibly easy to make. The combination of tender pasta, creamy beans, and tomato broth creates a deliciously satisfying and filling meal. It can be made in large batches and reheats well, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks. Plus, it’s vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta and beans. This hearty soup is perfect for cold winter days and is a great way to get your daily dose of protein and fiber. In this article, we will take a closer look at the ingredients and steps required to make this delicious soup.
Ingredients:
Here are the ingredients you will need to make Pasta e Fagioli Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta, such as ditalini
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Follow these steps to make Pasta e Fagioli Soup:
Step 1: Saute Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrots and saute until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
Step 3: Add Beans and Spices
Add cannellini beans, kidney beans, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Cook Pasta
While the soup is simmering, cook the pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Soup
Drain the pasta and add it to the pot of soup. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, until heated through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Variations:
Here are some variations you can try to make your Pasta e Fagioli Soup even more flavorful:
Add chopped bacon or pancetta to the soup while sauteing the vegetables for a smoky flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian. Substitute different types of beans, such as pinto beans or black beans, for the cannellini and kidney beans. Add chopped kale or spinach to the soup for some extra greens.
Conclusion:
Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a classic Italian soup that is both hearty and delicious. With its combination of pasta and beans, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of protein and fiber. By following the steps and variations outlined in this article, you can make your own delicious version of this soup in the comfort of your own kitchen.
FAQs:
1. What is the origin of Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a traditional Italian dish that originated in the countryside of Italy.
2. Can I use different types of pasta in this soup?
Yes, you can use any small pasta you like, such as elbow macaroni or small shells.
3. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes in this recipe. Just be sure to drain them before adding them to the pot.
4. Can I freeze Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the soup while it’s simmering to give it some heat.
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