Description

Pasta e Fagioli, which translates to "pasta and beans," is a beloved Italian comfort dish. This hearty, flavorful soup combines tender pasta with creamy beans in a savory tomato broth. It's a wholesome, satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week, and it's sure to be a hit with family and friends!

Ingredients

• For the Soup Base:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• For the Pasta:
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• For Finishing:
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Let the spices bloom for 1–2 minutes to enhance their aroma.

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Add the Beans
Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the cannellini beans and kidney beans. Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the soup simmers, cook the pasta separately according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Soup
Add the cooked pasta to the soup, stirring gently to combine. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the Pasta e Fagioli into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Conclusion

Tips for the Perfect Pasta e Fagioli
Customize the Beans: While cannellini and kidney beans are traditional, feel free to use chickpeas, navy beans, or your favorite variety.
Control the Consistency: For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth.
Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking the pasta separately ensures it doesn’t absorb too much broth or become overly soft.
Conclusion
This classic Pasta e Fagioli is the ultimate comfort food—rich in flavor, easy to make, and wonderfully versatile. Perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings, it's a dish that warms the heart and delights the palate. Pair it with your favorite wine and enjoy a taste of Italy in every bite. Buon appetito! 🍝✨