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Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup
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Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a hearty and comforting Italian classic combining tender pasta, creamy white beans, fresh herbs, and a savory broth. This simple yet flavorful one-pot meal offers balanced nutrition, versatile flavors, and cozy warmth perfect for any day or occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Beans and Pasta

  • 1 ½ cups cannellini or great northern white beans (canned, rinsed)
  • 1 cup ditalini or small elbow macaroni pasta

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, finely diced
  • 2 celery stalks, finely diced

Liquids and Flavorings

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Finishing Touches

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or basil as alternative)
  • Parmesan cheese, for grating on top (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

    Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. This soffritto base develops depth and aroma for the soup.

  2. Step 2: Add Tomato Paste and Herbs

    Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste along with fresh rosemary or thyme. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to lightly caramelize and blend with the herbs, enriching the flavor.

  3. Step 3: Pour in Broth and Beans

    Add 6 cups of your choice of chicken or vegetable broth and the rinsed white beans to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 15 minutes to meld flavors and soften the beans further.

  4. Step 4: Cook the Pasta

    Add 1 cup of ditalini or small elbow macaroni pasta and continue simmering gently. Cook until pasta reaches al dente texture, typically 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

  5. Step 5: Finish with Seasoning and Fresh Herbs

    Season the soup with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir in freshly chopped parsley or basil for a fresh finish. Optionally, drizzle with quality olive oil and grate Parmesan cheese on top to enrich creaminess and umami flavor. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use good quality broth for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta; add it later or cook separately if preferred.
  • Rinse canned beans to reduce excess sodium and improve creaminess.
  • Simmer gently to blend flavors and keep ingredients tender.
  • For thicker soup, mash some beans in the pot before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pasta e Fagioli, Italian Soup, White Bean Soup, Comfort Food, One-Pot Meal, Hearty Soup, Vegetarian Soup, Easy Italian Recipe

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/pasta-e-fagioli-soup/