Easy Pasta Fagioli

Typical Italian hearty winter fare done easy! Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting dish that warms you up on chilly days. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of pasta and beans provides a satisfying meal that keeps you full.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and beans, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some tools you’ll need to prepare Easy Pasta Fagioli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup without spills.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of the ditalini pasta to al dente perfection.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Makes slicing through vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your prep time.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 carrot diced
• 2 stalk celery diced
• 2 thin slice onion diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic chopped
• 1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
• 2 14 ounce chicken broth
• freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Flavoring

• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves

For Protein and 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 the diced carrots, celery, and onion; sauté until they soften.
3. Stir in the chopped garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

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

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. In a separate pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Add ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8 minutes) until al dente; drain.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the drained cannellini beans into the soup mixture.
2. Simmer for an additional few minutes to heat through.
3. Finally, stir in the cooked ditalini pasta until well combined.

Now your delicious Easy Pasta Fagioli is ready to be served! Enjoy this hearty dish with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Easy Pasta Fagioli

Serving Easy Pasta Fagioli is a delightful experience that warms the soul during cold days. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways, ensuring that every bowl is a treat.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil on top for an aromatic finish.
• Parsley Garnish – Add a handful of fresh parsley for color and flavor.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread – Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks – Pair with garlic breadsticks for a flavorful crunch.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Romano Cheese – A sprinkle of Romano adds a salty bite.
• Parmesan Shavings – Use thin shavings of Parmesan for a rich, nutty flavor.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A simple mixed greens salad balances the warmth of the soup.
• Caesar Salad – The creaminess of Caesar dressing complements the pasta fagioli perfectly.

How to Perfect Easy Pasta Fagioli

To make your Easy Pasta Fagioli even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Vegetables – Freshly diced carrots and celery enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
• Simmer Longer – Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors; just be careful not to overcook the pasta.
• Experiment with Broths – Try using homemade chicken broth for richer taste or vegetable broth for a lighter version.
• Add More Beans – Incorporate additional beans for added protein and fiber; chickpeas work well too.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; sometimes it may need a pinch more salt or pepper.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pasta Fagioli

Pairing side dishes with Easy Pasta Fagioli can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition to your meal.
4. Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta gives an extra comforting touch alongside the pasta fagioli.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes a light starter before the main dish.
6. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy fritters offer a delicious crunch that complements the soup’s texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Pasta Fagioli, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Bold seasoning: Not adding enough seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Bold cooking pasta too long: Overcooking the ditalini pasta can make it mushy. Aim for al dente by following package instructions closely.
• Bold skimping on veggies: Reducing the amount of vegetables may affect the heartiness of your soup. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced flavor.
• Bold using canned beans improperly: Forgetting to drain and rinse canned beans can result in a gritty texture. Always rinse them before adding to your soup.
• Bold ignoring simmer time: Skipping the simmer time can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow at least 20 minutes for the ingredients to meld together.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in the container for expansion.

Reheating Easy Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl, covering lightly. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Pasta Fagioli that might help you along your cooking journey.

Can I make Easy Pasta Fagioli vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit any meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

What can I serve with Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s hearty and satisfying.

How do I customize my Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Feel free to add additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap out ditalini pasta for another type you prefer!

Can I use different beans in Easy Pasta Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can substitute cannellini beans with chickpeas or kidney beans based on your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and versatile dish perfect for any season. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or spices—make it your own!