Experience the hearty and comforting flavors of Traditional Pasta e Fagioli. This classic Italian soup combines tender pasta with creamy beans, creating a satisfying dish perfect for any season. Follow this recipe to bring the authentic taste of Italy into your kitchen.
Inspiring Quote
“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” – Auguste Escoffier
Recipe Description
Pasta e Fagioli, which translates to “pasta and beans,” is a staple in Italian cuisine. This rustic and nourishing soup has its roots in the peasant cooking of Italy, where simple and inexpensive ingredients were used to create wholesome meals. Traditionally, it features a mix of pasta, beans, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Each region of Italy has its own variation of this dish, making it a versatile and beloved recipe. This version will guide you through making a delicious and authentic pasta e fagioli that captures the essence of Italian comfort food.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 2 cups cooked cannellini beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Procedure
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the Pasta:
- While the soup is simmering, cook the ditalini pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Add Beans and Pasta:
- Add the cooked cannellini beans to the soup, and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the pasta e fagioli into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this traditional Italian dish.
Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade Traditional Pasta e Fagioli, a delicious and hearty Italian soup that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Perfect for any season, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Additional Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the beans before adding them to the soup.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Beverage Pairings
Pasta e Fagioli pairs well with:
- Wine: A medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti or Barbera.
- Beer: An amber ale or a light pilsner complements the flavors of the soup.
- Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea.