Classic Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Transport yourself to the heart of Italy with our Classic Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup. This hearty and flavorful soup, a staple in Italian cuisine, combines the richness of beans, the robustness of tomatoes, and the comforting warmth of aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests with a taste of traditional Italian comfort.

Why we love this recipe:

• Rich Italian Flavors: This Classic Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup captures the essence of Italian cuisine with its rich and comforting flavors. The aromatic blend of sautéed vegetables, beans, and herbs creates a taste that transports you straight to the heart of Italy.
• Hearty and Nourishing: This soup is not just a dish; it’s a complete and satisfying meal. Packed with a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta, it provides a wholesome and nourishing experience that’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
• Aromatics for the Soul: The sautéed combination of onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil forms a flavorful base that sets the tone for the entire soup. The aroma alone is enough to evoke a sense of comfort and anticipation.
• Versatile Bean Duo: The use of both cannellini and red kidney beans adds a delightful variety of textures and tastes to the soup. Each bean brings its unique contribution, creating a harmonious and satisfying eating experience.
• Herb-Infused Warmth: The trio of dried oregano, basil, and thyme contributes a symphony of herbal notes, infusing the soup with warmth and depth. It’s a combination that embodies the timeless appeal of traditional Italian cooking.
• Comfort in Every Spoonful: More than just a dish, this soup offers a comforting experience. It’s the kind of food that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, reminding you of home-cooked meals and the joy of shared family dinners.
• Adaptable and Flexible: The recipe is versatile, allowing for personalization based on preferences. Whether choosing different beans, experimenting with pasta shapes, or adjusting the seasoning, it invites creativity in the kitchen.
• Fresh Garnishes: The finishing touches of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese not only add visual appeal but also enhance the overall flavor profile. They bring a burst of freshness and a hint of indulgence to each serving.
• Ease of Preparation: This recipe achieves its rich and complex flavors without requiring a complex preparation process. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary.
• Nostalgic and Timeless: This soup carries a timeless quality, connecting us to the traditions of Italian cooking. It’s a reminder that some of the best meals are often the ones that have been cherished and enjoyed for generations.

In essence, we love this Classic Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup for its ability to evoke feelings of warmth, nourishment, and connection. It’s more than a recipe; it’s a culinary journey that brings the heart and soul of Italy to your table. Each spoonful is a celebration of the love and passion embedded in traditional Italian cooking.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup ditalini or small pasta
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

How to Make this Recipe:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
2. Add Beans and Tomatoes:
   • Stir in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans, red kidney beans, and diced tomatoes. Allow them to cook for a few minutes, melding flavors.
3. Season with Herbs and Spices:
   • Add dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the herbs and spices.
4. Pour in Broth:
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Cook Pasta:
   • In a separate pot, cook the ditalini or small pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine Pasta and Soup:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the soup, stirring gently to combine. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve and Garnish:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Success Tips:

1. Bean Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans according to your preference. Great Northern beans or navy beans can be excellent alternatives.
2. Broth Choice: Choose between chicken or vegetable broth based on your dietary preferences.
3. Pasta Options: If ditalini is not available, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like small shells or elbow macaroni.
4. Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs contribute robust flavors, you can enhance the soup with a handful of fresh herbs like basil or thyme if available.

Storage:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the pasta is stored separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Notes:

• Bean Variations: Experiment with different types of beans to suit your taste. Great Northern beans, navy beans, or even a combination of beans can add interesting textures and flavors.
• Broth Preference: Choose between chicken or vegetable broth based on dietary preferences. For a richer flavor, consider using homemade broth.
• Pasta Options: If ditalini is not available, feel free to substitute it with other small pasta shapes such as small shells, elbow macaroni, or mini penne.
• Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs contribute robust flavors, adding a handful of fresh herbs like basil or thyme just before serving can elevate the soup’s freshness.
• Vegetable Consistency: Maintain a balance in the size and consistency of the diced vegetables to ensure even cooking and a pleasing texture in every spoonful.
• Adjusting Seasoning: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the salt, pepper, and herb quantities according to your preference. The flavors tend to intensify as the soup simmers.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you enjoy a bit of heat in your soup.
• Soup Thickness: If the soup becomes too thick upon standing or reheating, adjust the consistency by adding more broth or water as needed.
• Storage of Pasta: Store any leftover soup and pasta separately if you anticipate having leftovers. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much liquid and becoming mushy.
• Garnish Creativity: While parsley and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other garnishes such as a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a dollop of pesto, or a sprinkle of grated Romano cheese.
• Freezing Consideration: If planning to freeze the soup, it’s advisable to freeze it without the pasta. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating to maintain its texture.
• Enhanced Flavors Over Time: Like many soups, the flavors of this Pasta Fagioli soup tend to deepen and improve over time. Consider making it a day ahead for an even more satisfying taste.

Remember, these notes are meant to guide and inspire. Feel free to adapt the recipe to your liking, and enjoy the flexibility it offers in creating a soup that suits your taste preferences. Buon Appetito!

Nutrition: (Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

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FAQs:

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup actually develops even richer flavors when made ahead of time. Simply reheat it gently on the stove, adjusting the consistency with additional broth if needed.

Can I freeze this soup? While the soup can be frozen, it’s advisable to freeze it without the pasta. Pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated. Add freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve the frozen soup.

This Classic Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a celebration of timeless flavors and the comforting warmth found in traditional Italian kitchens. Enjoy the journey of creating and savoring this heartwarming bowl of goodness!