Pasta Fagioli

Introduction

As the days grow shorter and a chill settles in the air, there's nothing quite as comforting as a warm, satisfying bowl of soup. Enter pasta fagioli, a classic Italian dish that perfectly embodies this feeling. Translating simply to "pasta and beans", this humble yet delicious creation has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations. Its simple name hints at its accessible nature, making it a go-to for anyone seeking a taste of authentic Italian comfort.

Why Make This Delicious Recipe & When to Serve It

Pasta fagioli isn't just a meal; it's an experience. It’s the kind of dish that evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making it the ultimate comfort food. Its heartiness ensures it stands alone as a complete and satisfying meal. What makes it even more appealing is its budget-friendly nature, relying on simple and inexpensive ingredients that are often already in your pantry.

There are countless perfect moments to enjoy a bowl of pasta fagioli. It's ideal for cozy weeknight dinners after a long day , a comforting staple for family gatherings , or a welcome warmth on chilly autumn and winter evenings. Moreover, it's an excellent candidate for meal prepping. Its flavors deepen overnight, making it a delicious and convenient option for busy schedules.

Basic Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own comforting pot of pasta fagioli:

• Olive Oil: (2 tablespoons) – Provides a flavorful base for sautéing the vegetables and adds a touch of richness to the soup.
• Onion: (1 medium, diced) – Forms the aromatic foundation of the soup, lending a deep, savory flavor.
• Carrot: (1 medium, diced) – Introduces a subtle sweetness and a pleasant texture to the overall dish.
• Celery: (1 rib, diced) – Contributes a savory and slightly peppery note, enhancing the complexity of the flavor base.
• Garlic: (2-3 cloves, minced) – Imparts a pungent and aromatic flavor that beautifully complements the other ingredients.
• Canned Cannellini Beans: (2 cans, 15 ounces each, drained and rinsed) – Offer a creamy texture, a good source of protein, and the quintessential "fagioli" element of the dish. You could also explore using other beans like borlotti or navy beans for a slightly different taste.
• Diced Tomatoes: (1 can, 14.5 ounces) – Add a welcome acidity, a touch of sweetness, and essential liquid to the broth. Alternatively, you can use tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes depending on your preference for texture.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: (4 cups) – Forms the flavorful liquid foundation of the soup, adding depth and moisture.
• Ditalini Pasta: (1 cup) – This small, tube-shaped pasta is a traditional choice for pasta fagioli, providing the perfect bite and texture. Other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells also work well.
• Dried Oregano: (1 teaspoon) – Imparts a warm, aromatic, and slightly peppery flavor that is characteristic of Italian cooking.
• Dried Basil: (½ teaspoon) – Contributes a sweet and slightly peppery note, harmonizing beautifully with the other herbs.
• Bay Leaf: (1) – Infuses the soup with a subtle herbaceous and slightly floral aroma as it simmers.
• Salt and Black Pepper: (To taste) – Essential seasonings that enhance and balance all the wonderful flavors in the soup.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: (For garnish) – Adds a salty, nutty, and savory finish to each comforting bowl.
• Fresh Parsley: (Chopped, for garnish) – Provides a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor and a lovely visual touch.
• Optional: Pancetta or Italian Sausage: (4 ounces, diced) – Adds a rich, savory, and often salty depth of flavor, reflecting the regional variations of this dish. This can be omitted for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Optional: Parmesan Rind: (1) – Infuses the broth with a subtle salty and umami richness as it simmers.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious pasta fagioli:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced medium onion, 1 medium diced carrot, and 1 diced celery rib. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add 2-3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until you can smell their fragrant aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.

Tip: Sautéing the vegetables gently at the beginning helps to release their flavors, creating a more complex and delicious base for your soup.

2. Build the Flavor Base: If you're using pancetta or Italian sausage, add 4 ounces of diced meat to the pot and cook until it's nicely browned and crispy. Next, stir in 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes (or the equivalent amount of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes) and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to incorporate all the flavors. Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of dried basil, and 1 bay leaf to the pot. If you have a Parmesan rind, now is the time to add it for extra depth of flavor. Season generously with salt and black pepper to your taste.

3. Simmer for Flavor: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Tip: The longer the soup simmers, the richer and more developed the flavors will become.

4. Add the Final Touches: Remove the bay leaf and the Parmesan rind (if you used one) from the pot. Add 2 cans (15 ounces each) of drained and rinsed cannellini beans and 1 cup of ditalini pasta (or your preferred small pasta shape) to the simmering soup. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer and cook until the pasta is al dente, which usually takes about 8-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Tip: Keep an eye on the pasta and don't overcook it, as it will continue to soften once the soup is off the heat.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Stir in some freshly chopped parsley. Ladle the warm pasta fagioli into bowls and garnish generously with grated Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top is also a lovely finishing touch, if desired. Serve hot and savor the comforting flavors!

Tips for the Perfect Recipe

Here are some extra tips to help you make the most delicious pasta fagioli:

• Embrace Dried Beans: While canned beans offer convenience, using dried beans that have been soaked overnight and cooked with aromatics can impart a much deeper and more nuanced flavor to your soup. Cooking dried beans allows them to absorb the flavors of the vegetables and herbs they are simmered with, resulting in a richer taste.
• Achieve Creamy Perfection: For a thicker, creamier texture, try removing about a cup or two of the cooked beans before adding the pasta. Mash them with a fork or briefly blend them with a little of the soup's broth and then stir them back into the pot. This releases their starches and naturally thickens the soup without the need for cream.
• Pasta Timing is Key: To avoid mushy pasta, add it to the soup towards the end of the cooking time and cook it just until it reaches the al dente stage. Remember that it will continue to cook slightly in the residual heat once the soup is removed from the stove.
• The Magic of a Parmesan Rind: Don't discard your Parmesan rinds! Simmering a rind in the broth adds a subtle yet significant salty and umami flavor that elevates the entire dish. Just be sure to remove it before serving.
• Freshness from Herbs: While dried herbs provide a wonderful base flavor, adding fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or basil right before serving will brighten the soup and add a vibrant aroma.
• Adjust to Your Preference: Feel free to adjust the consistency of your pasta fagioli to your liking. If you prefer a thicker soup, simply simmer it uncovered for a little longer at the end to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. For a thinner, more brothy soup, add a little extra broth or water.
• A Touch of Brightness: Consider adding a splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right at the very end of cooking. This small addition can really brighten up the flavors and add a lovely tang to the soup.
• Enhance Tomato Flavor: If you're using tomato paste in your recipe (as an alternative to diced tomatoes), try sautéing it with the vegetables for a minute or two before adding the broth. This helps to deepen its flavor and remove any raw taste.

Serving Ideas

Pasta fagioli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas for serving:

• Keep it Classic: Ladle the soup into bowls and top generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
• Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley, basil, or even a few sprigs of fresh rosemary on top for an extra layer of aroma and visual appeal.
• Bread for Sopping: Serve with a side of crusty Italian bread, warm garlic bread, or flavorful focaccia. These are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious broth. The combination of the hearty soup and crusty bread is a truly satisfying experience.
• Light and Fresh Side Salad: Pair your pasta fagioli with a simple green salad, a refreshing Caesar salad, or a vibrant Italian chopped salad to provide a light and crisp contrast to the richness of the soup.
• A Little Spice: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over each serving.
• Unexpected Twist: While traditionally served as a soup, some variations of pasta fagioli have a thicker, more sauce-like consistency. In this case, it can be served over larger pasta shapes like rigatoni for a heartier meal. This showcases the dish's adaptability.
• Regional Flair: In certain regions, a dollop of pesto is added as a flavorful garnish, providing a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. This reflects the diverse culinary traditions within Italy.

Tips for Storing and Reheating

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your leftover pasta fagioli to maintain its delicious taste and texture:

Storing

• Cool it Down First: Before storing, make sure to let the pasta fagioli cool completely to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container.
• Refrigerator Storage: Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing for Later: For longer storage, pasta fagioli can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. However, be aware that the texture of the pasta might change slightly after thawing, becoming a bit softer.
• Separate Pasta Storage: If you know you'll have leftovers, you can cook the pasta separately and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Then, when you reheat the soup, add the desired amount of cooked pasta to each serving. This is a great way to prevent the pasta from becoming overly soft in the stored soup.

Reheating

• Stovetop Reheating is Best: The best way to reheat your pasta fagioli is on the stovetop. Simply place the desired amount in a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until it’s heated through.
• Add a Little Liquid: As the soup sits, the pasta tends to absorb some of the broth. When reheating, you might find it’s thickened. Add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth or even a little water to bring it back to your preferred consistency.
• Quick Microwave Option: If you're short on time, you can also reheat pasta fagioli in the microwave. Make sure to use a microwave-safe bowl and stir the soup halfway through the heating process to ensure it warms evenly.

Conclusion

Pasta fagioli is more than just a simple soup; it's a comforting, hearty, and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Italian home cooking. Its simplicity and affordability make it a wonderful option for any home cook, regardless of their skill level. From its humble origins to its diverse regional variations, pasta fagioli offers a taste of tradition and warmth in every spoonful. So, why not gather your ingredients and try this delightful recipe? You're sure to find it a comforting and satisfying addition to your culinary repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between pasta fagioli and pasta fazool?

A: They are essentially the same dish! "Pasta fazool" is an Americanized pronunciation of the Neapolitan dialect phrase "pasta e fasule," which simply means "pasta and beans".

Q: Is pasta fagioli a soup or a pasta dish?

A: It can be considered both! Depending on the ratio of liquid to solids, it can range from a hearty soup to a thicker, more stew-like pasta dish.

Q: Does pasta fagioli contain meat?

A: Traditional versions can be vegetarian or include meat such as pancetta or Italian sausage, depending on the region and the cook's preference. The recipe provided here offers an optional meat addition.

Q: What is the difference between pasta fagioli and minestrone?

A: While both are Italian soups that often include vegetables, pasta fagioli typically features beans and pasta as its stars in a heartier broth. Minestrone, on the other hand, usually contains a wider variety of vegetables and has a thinner broth.

Works cited

1. Lets talk about Pasta e fagioli - Olio Piro., accessed April 29, 2025, https://olio-piro.com/blogs/piro-blog/lets-talk-about-pasta-e-fagioli
2. Pasta e Fagioli - The Catholic Echo, accessed April 29, 2025, https://catholicecho.org/2024/03/01/pasta-e-fagioli/
3. Pasta e fagioli - Wikipedia, accessed April 29, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pasta_e_fagioli
4. Meet Pasta Fazool, the Italian-American Version of Tomato Soup - Allrecipes, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.allrecipes.com/article/what-is-pasta-fazool/
5. Authentic Pasta Fagioli - Italian Bean and Pasta Soup - Pina Bresciani, accessed April 29, 2025, https://pinabresciani.com/authentic-pasta-fagioli/
6. I've Made This Stanley Tucci Recipe 3 Times in the Past 10 Days - Allrecipes, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.allrecipes.com/stanley-tucci-easy-shortcut-pasta-fagioli-soup-recipe-8721804
7. Pasta e Fagioli Recipe | Valerie Bertinelli | Food Network, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/valerie-bertinelli/pasta-e-fagioli-3234630
8. Pasta e Fagioli Recipe - Love and Lemons, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.loveandlemons.com/pasta-fagioli/
9. pasta e fagioli : r/EatCheapAndHealthy - Reddit, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/EatCheapAndHealthy/comments/11pk0aq/pasta_e_fagioli/
10. Pasta Fagioli Soup - Carlsbad Cravings, accessed April 29, 2025, https://carlsbadcravings.com/pasta-e-fagioli-soup-pasta-fazzol-recipe/
11. Pasta Fazool (Pasta e Fagioli) Recipe - Allrecipes, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/255823/pasta-fazool-pasta-e-fagioli/
12. Pasta e Fagioli - Cooking With Ayeh, accessed April 29, 2025, https://cookingwithayeh.com/pasta-e-fagioli/
13. Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta Fazool) - Coley Cooks, accessed April 29, 2025, https://coleycooks.com/pasta-fagioli/
14. PASTA FAGIOLI VENETIAN-STYLE recipe & history - all you need to know - philosokitchen, accessed April 29, 2025, https://philosokitchen.com/pasta-fagioli-recipe-venetian/
15. Italian Cousins: Pasta e Fagioli and Minestrone - Munchery, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.munchery.com/blog/italian-cousins-pasta-e-fagioli-and-minestrone/
16. Pasta and Beans: Pasta e Fagioli Recipe | Rachael Ray - Food Network, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/pasta-and-beans-pasta-e-fagioli-recipe-1939374
17. Easy Pasta Fagioli Recipe, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/23842/easy-pasta-fagioli/
18. Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta Fazool) - The Food Table, accessed April 29, 2025, https://thefoodtable.com/pasta-e-fagioli-pasta-fazool.html
19. Andrea's Pasta Fagioli Recipe - Allrecipes, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/25690/andreas-pasta-fagioli/
20. Authentic Pasta Fagioli Recipe (with Step-by-Step Video) - Once Upon a Chef, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/pasta-fagioli.html
21. Best Pasta Fagioli Recipe - Erin Lives Whole, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.erinliveswhole.com/best-pasta-fagioli-recipe/
22. Pasta e Fagioli - Simply Recipes, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/pasta_e_fagioli/
23. Traditional Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe - Ronzoni® Pasta, accessed April 29, 2025, https://ronzoni.com/recipe/southern-italian-pasta-fagioli/
24. Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe - Chef Billy Parisi, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.billyparisi.com/pasta-e-fagioli-soup-recipe/
25. Pasta Fagioli - Melissa Jo Real Recipes, accessed April 29, 2025, https://melissajorealrecipes.com/pasta-fagioli/
26. A really simple pasta e fagoli recipe. Please help me make it better. - Reddit, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/EatCheapAndHealthy/comments/1dm608n/a_really_simple_pasta_e_fagoli_recipe_please_help/
27. Pasta e Fagioli - Budget Bytes, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.budgetbytes.com/pasta-e-fagioli/
28. Jacques Pépin's Secret to Tasty Pasta Fagioli Recipe | Cooking at Home | KQED - YouTube, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSVo-Y7casU
29. As promised, the "sauce" for pasta fagioli (pasta and beans) after 12 hours. This'll go over top of some rigatoni with a bit of butter and fresh Parmesan. : r/slowcooking - Reddit, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/slowcooking/comments/7eii7f/as_promised_the_sauce_for_pasta_fagioli_pasta_and/
30. Pasta e Fagioli: Easiest Italian recipe - Stefania's Kitchenette, accessed April 29, 2025, https://stefaniaskitchenette.com/pasta-e-fagioli/
31. Pasta e Fagioli (Italian Bean and Pasta Soup) - Serious Eats, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.seriouseats.com/pasta-e-fagioli-italian-bean-pasta-soup-recipe
32. Pasta Fagioli recipe requests : r/soup - Reddit, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/soup/comments/1ckkmp3/pasta_fagioli_recipe_requests/
33. thespicegirlkitchen.com, accessed April 29, 2025, https://thespicegirlkitchen.com/pasta-e-fagioli/#:~:text=Storage%3A%20Let%20the%20soup%20cool,absorb%20the%20liquid%20over%20time.
34. Pasta E Fagioli - The Spice Girl Kitchen, accessed April 29, 2025, https://thespicegirlkitchen.com/pasta-e-fagioli/
35. Freezing Pasta E Fagioli | Ask Nigella.com, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.nigella.com/ask/freezing-pasta-e-fagioli
36. What Can I Do With Left Over Pasta E Fagioli? | Ask Nigella.com, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.nigella.com/ask/what-can-i-do-with-left-over-pasta-e-fagioli
37. Salad suggestion for Pasta Fagioli? - GardenWeb, accessed April 29, 2025, https://www.gardenweb.com/discussions/4217686/salad-suggestion-for-pasta-fagioli