Authentic Pasta e Fagioli

How to make Authentic Pasta e Fagioli

Ingredients

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 onion, chopped

2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped

1 can of cannellini beans, with the liquid

1 tbsp olive oil

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp dried parsley

1 tsp Italian seasoning

¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

8 ounces of tomato sauce

14 ½ ounces chicken broth

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup uncooked spinach pasta

Instructions

In a large saucepan or dutch oven, heat the olive oil and add in the celery and onions

Cook until onions are translucent

Add in the seasonings and cook for 5 minutes

Add the tomato sauce, the chicken broth and tomatoes and simmer for 15 minutes

Add pasta and cook for 15 minutes or until pasta is al dente

Add the can of beans with juice, stir to combine and heat through

Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese before serving

Can be served with bread sticks or a crusty slice of bread.

Pasta can also be cooked separately and placed in the bowl prior to the soup, this will prevent soggy mushy pasta in the leftovers.

Serve with a sandwich, roasted vegetables or any type of salad.

Enjoy!

Notes:

Classic Italian Comfort: Pasta e Fagioli, meaning “pasta and beans” in Italian, is a beloved Italian soup known for its comforting and hearty nature.

Simple Ingredients, Rich Flavor: This recipe utilizes simple, pantry-friendly ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and pasta, yet it delivers a rich and satisfying flavor profile.

Vegetable Base: The soup starts with a flavorful base of celery, onions, and garlic sautéed in olive oil, providing depth and aroma to the dish.

Beans and Pasta: Cannellini beans add creaminess and protein to the soup, while spinach pasta adds color and texture, making it a wholesome and balanced meal.

Herbs and Spices: Dried parsley, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes infuse the soup with classic Italian flavors, enhancing its authenticity.

Tomato-Based Broth: The combination of tomato sauce and chicken broth creates a robust and savory broth that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Adjustable Seasoning: Salt and pepper are added to taste, allowing for customization based on personal preference.

Garnish with Parmesan: Sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a salty and nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.

Serving Suggestions: This soup can be served with breadsticks or crusty bread for dipping, and it pairs well with sandwiches, roasted vegetables, or salads for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips: Cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual servings prevents it from becoming soggy when stored as leftovers, ensuring a better texture and taste when reheated.

Nutrition Information:

SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different type of pasta if you prefer.

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbows, or small shells work well in this soup, but you can use any pasta shape you like.

Just keep in mind that different pasta shapes may require different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later.

Just be sure to store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Can I add meat to this recipe, like ground beef or sausage?

Yes, you can add meat to this recipe if you prefer.

Ground beef or sausage would both work well in this soup, and can add extra flavor and protein.

Simply cook the meat in a separate pan before adding it to the soup, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze this soup for later?

Yes, you can freeze this soup for later.

Simply let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or plastic bag.

When you’re ready to eat, let the soup thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot.

For the slow cooker, simply add all the ingredients to the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

For the Instant Pot, sauté the onion and garlic using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a natural release.

Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and model of your slow cooker or Instant Pot.