Homemade Pasta Fagioli

by

Pasta Fagioli, also known as “Pasta e Fagioli,” is a classic Italian comfort dish, loved for its hearty ingredients and rich flavors. It originated as a peasant meal, traditionally made with simple ingredients such as pasta and beans.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni)
  • 1 Parmesan rind (optional for flavor)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and the Parmesan rind (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
  3. Add the beans: Stir in the cannellini and kidney beans, and let everything cook together for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Cook the pasta: In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. (Alternatively, you can cook the pasta directly in the soup during the last 10 minutes of simmering, but this may absorb more broth.)
  5. Finish and serve: If cooked separately, stir the pasta into the soup right before serving. Remove the Parmesan rind. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  6. Garnish and enjoy: Ladle the Pasta Fagioli into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Tips:

  • For a richer flavor, let the soup simmer longer or prepare it a day ahead, as it tastes even better the next day.
  • If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans before adding them to the soup.

Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish with friends and family, or save some for a quick and delicious meal later in the week!

Leave a Comment