Cozy Pasta Fagioli: A Hearty Italian Classic Recipe

Pasta fagioli is like a warm hug in a bowl, packed with delicious beans and pasta that dance together in harmony. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, coaxing everyone to gather around, eager for a taste of this comforting Italian classic.

Imagine cozy evenings with family, laughter echoing against the walls, as everyone digs into their bowls of pasta fagioli. It’s the perfect dish for chilly nights or when you’re simply craving something hearty and soul-satisfying.

I once made pasta fagioli for my friends during a game night, and they couldn’t get enough; they even started calling it “the magic potion.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its fruity flavor and health benefits; it adds depth to the broth.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; make sure it’s finely chopped for even cooking.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a robust aroma; crush them gently before adding to release their essential oils.

• Carrots: Diced carrots add natural sweetness and color; choose vibrant, firm ones for the best results.

• Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch; opt for fresh stalks to enhance texture and flavor.

• Canned Tomatoes: Use high-quality diced tomatoes for a rich base; San Marzano varieties are excellent choices.

• Cannellini Beans: These creamy beans are traditional in pasta fagioli; drain and rinse them well before use.

• Pasta: Small pasta shapes work best; ditalini or elbow macaroni are ideal for soaking up flavors.

• Basil: Fresh basil provides a fragrant finish; tear the leaves just before serving to release their oils.

• Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control saltiness while infusing great flavor throughout the dish.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances richness; sprinkle generously on top before serving for added flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, releasing that sweet aroma that makes your mouth water.

Add Veggies and Garlic: Toss in diced carrots and chopped celery, stirring occasionally until they soften slightly. Then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about one minute.

Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in those glorious canned tomatoes along with vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally as the kitchen fills with heavenly scents.

Add Beans and Pasta: Once simmering, stir in the cannellini beans followed by your chosen pasta shape. Allow it all to cook together until the pasta is tender—about eight to ten minutes should do it.

Finish with Basil and Cheese : Stir through fresh basil leaves just before serving, allowing their bright fragrance to mingle with the warm stew. Serve hot topped with grated Parmesan cheese—your taste buds will thank you!

Enjoying pasta fagioli isn’t just about food; it’s an experience filled with warmth and laughter around the table. Each bite tells a story of comfort and love that’s perfect for sharing!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add your beans and broth. While simmering, cook the pasta separately to avoid mushiness. Combine them at the end for the best texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cannellini beans for kidney beans or toss in some spinach for added nutrition. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top adds a delightful finish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pasta fagioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to restore creaminess.

Sharing this delightful recipe always brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone dipped their bread into this warm, flavorful goodness. The smiles were priceless!

FAQ

What beans work best in pasta fagioli?

Cannellini or great northern beans are traditional choices, but feel free to experiment.

Can I make pasta fagioli vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook pasta separately and add it at the end to maintain its texture.

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Pasta Fagioli

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Pasta fagioli is a heartwarming Italian soup that combines tender pasta and creamy cannellini beans in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, this dish offers comfort and nourishment in every bite. With its customizable ingredients, you can make it your own while enjoying the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen. Gather your loved ones around the table and savor this classic recipe that warms both the body and soul.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta or elbow macaroni
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• Fresh basil leaves to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent.
2. Add diced carrots and chopped celery; cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic.
3. Pour in canned tomatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Add cannellini beans and pasta; cook for about 8–10 minutes until pasta is tender.
5. Stir in fresh basil before serving, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 5mg