EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool)

Pasta Fagioli is a comforting and hearty dish that you can enjoy any day of the week! This EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool) combines tender pasta and nutritious beans in a savory broth, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prepping for busy weekdays. Its blend of flavors from turkey strips, garlic, and spices creates a delightful experience in every spoonful. Whether you’re serving family or hosting friends, this soup will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 35 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of turkey, garlic, and Italian seasoning means every bowl is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or pasta types based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with beans and greens, this soup offers protein and fiber to keep you satisfied.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious soup, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large dutch oven or soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Ladle
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large dutch oven or soup pot: Essential for cooking soups evenly and allowing for ample space as ingredients simmer together.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 100 grams turkey strips, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 ribs celery, finely diced
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For Flavoring

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Broth & Beans

• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth (vegetable for vegetarian)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz or 398 ml) or crushed
• 2 cans white kidney beans (19 oz or 540 ml) drained and rinsed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 parm rind

For Serving

• 1 cup ditalini or other small pasta (uncooked) about 130 grams
• 2 cups freshly chopped spinach or kale
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool)

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a large dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped turkey strips.
3. Cook until lightly browned.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add to the pot:
1. Chopped carrots.
2. Diced celery.
3. Finely diced onion.
4. Cook until the vegetables are translucent.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in:
1. Minced garlic.
2. Tomato paste.
3. Italian seasoning.
4. Salt and pepper.
Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Beans

Pour in:
1. Low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth).
2. Diced tomatoes.
3. Drained white kidney beans.
4. Add bay leaf and parmesan rind.
Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium and cover. Cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are nearly tender.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add:
1. Uncooked ditalini pasta to the pot.
Cover again and cook until pasta is al dente according to package instructions.

Step 6: Finish with Greens and Cheese

Just before serving:
1. Stir in chopped spinach or kale.
2. Add grated Parmesan cheese.
Taste your soup and adjust seasonings as desired before serving hot!

Enjoy your delicious bowl of EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool)!

How to Serve EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool)

Serving your EASY Pasta Fagioli is an opportunity to get creative while enhancing the dish’s comforting flavors. Here are some delightful ways to serve this satisfying soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty bread loaf is perfect for dipping. Choose a rustic baguette or a sourdough for added flavor.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling fresh basil or parsley on top adds a bright, herbal note that complements the savory ingredients.

Add Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, a sprinkle of grated parmesan or mozzarella just before serving can enhance creaminess and flavor.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, making for a wholesome meal.

Offer Chili Flakes

• For those who enjoy a little heat, providing chili flakes allows guests to spice up their bowl of pasta fagioli as desired.

Garnish with Lemon Zest

• A touch of lemon zest brightens the dish and adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool)

To ensure your EASY Pasta Fagioli turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips that enhance texture and taste.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality produce and broth significantly impact flavor. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed to suit your palate.
• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully before serving.
• Freeze Leftovers: If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before freezing in airtight containers. This soup freezes well!

Best Side Dishes for EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool)

Pairing side dishes with your EASY Pasta Fagioli can elevate the meal experience. Here are some great options that complement the soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter makes for an irresistible dipping companion.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crispness and tanginess that balances the rich flavors of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and asparagus add healthy elements and vibrant colors to your meal.
4. Caprese Skewers: These skewers combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze; they offer freshness alongside your soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring an earthy taste that’s delightful when paired with pasta fagioli.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf offers a nice contrast in texture while remaining neutral enough not to overpower the main dish.
7. Antipasto Platter: Featuring olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables creates variety and invites sharing at the table.
8. Simple Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad dressed in lemon juice adds brightness to balance out the hearty flavors of your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool), it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using too little seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Make sure to use the recommended amounts of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Overcooking the pasta: Keeping the pasta al dente helps maintain its texture. Follow the cooking instructions closely and check for doneness before serving.
• Skipping the bay leaf: The bay leaf adds depth to the soup. Don’t skip it; just remember to remove it before serving!
• Not letting it simmer: A good simmer allows flavors to meld. Don’t rush this step; allow at least 10 minutes for the best taste.
• Ignoring vegetable prep: Properly chopping vegetables ensures even cooking. Take time to dice them finely for consistent texture in every spoonful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool)

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

Reheating EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about your EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool), you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.

Can I make this EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool) vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I customize my EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool)?

Feel free to add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers or swap out beans according to your preference!

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, any small pasta shape will work beautifully in this soup.

How long does it take to make this soup?

The total time is about 35 minutes – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

This EASY Pasta Fagioli recipe (Pasta Fazool) is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!