Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Pasta e Fagioli is a classic Italian comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This hearty soup features tender pasta and nutritious beans, making it a perfect choice for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor, ensuring everyone at the table will love it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein-rich beans and vitamins from fresh vegetables, this dish offers a wholesome option for any meal.
• Versatile: Customize your Pasta e Fagioli by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of pasta and beans makes it a satisfying choice that is perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Family-Friendly: A sure hit for both kids and adults alike, it’s a great way to introduce more plant-based meals into your diet.

Tools and Preparation

To make Classic Pasta e Fagioli, you’ll need some essential tools. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills while stirring.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring clean cuts and easy transfer to the pot.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to dice ingredients quickly and safely.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring all flavors meld perfectly.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Classic Pasta e Fagioli:

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground Italian sausage
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 4 medium carrots (finely diced)
• 4 medium celery ribs (finely diced)
• 5 teaspoons minced garlic (about 5 cloves)

For the Broth

• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 (15 ounce cans) diced tomatoes

For the Beans

• 1 (15 ounce can) red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 (15 ounce can) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)

Seasoning & Garnish

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in 1 pound ground Italian sausage. Use a large spoon to break it up, cooking until browned—about 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Meanwhile, dice 1 medium yellow onion. Finely dice 4 medium carrots and 4 medium celery ribs into similarly sized pieces as the onion. Add these vegetables to the pot with the sausage. Cook until softened—about 7 to 10 minutes—stirring frequently. Add in 5 teaspoons minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Step 3: Combine Broth & Beans

Pour in 4 cups beef broth along with 2 (15 ounce cans) diced tomatoes. Drain and rinse both the red kidney beans and cannellini beans to remove extra starch before adding them to the pot. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil over high heat.

Step 4: Add Pasta

Once boiling, add in 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta. Reduce heat to medium and let simmer until pasta is al dente—about 7 minutes.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot! Garnish generously with chopped fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Classic Pasta e Fagioli!

How to Serve Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Classic Pasta e Fagioli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it as a main course or alongside other dishes, serving it right can elevate your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Adding fresh basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your dish.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley can provide a fresh taste and beautiful contrast against the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for a delightful combination that complements the soup’s richness.
• Ciabatta: A slice of ciabatta can be perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Top with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
• Vegan Cheese: For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese shavings that melt beautifully over the hot soup.

How to Perfect Classic Pasta e Fagioli

Perfecting your Classic Pasta e Fagioli takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For better texture, consider cooking pasta separately and adding it just before serving to avoid overcooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10 minutes after cooking can deepen the flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Pasta e Fagioli

To complement your Classic Pasta e Fagioli, consider these fantastic side dishes that pair well with this hearty soup.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a flavorful and healthy touch.
3. Stuffed Peppers: These can provide an additional hearty option that ties in nicely with Italian flavors.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make for a refreshing finger food pairing.
5. Antipasto Platter: Include olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables for variety and texture.
6. Polenta Cakes: Crispy polenta cakes can act as a satisfying base that complements the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make errors when preparing Classic Pasta e Fagioli. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adjusting salt and pepper can lead to bland soup. Always taste as you cook and adjust to your preference.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too soon or cooking it too long can make it mushy. Add the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking for perfect texture.
• Using canned beans improperly: Rinsing beans is important to remove excess starch and sodium. Always drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to your soup.
• Neglecting ingredient sizes: Cutting vegetables unevenly can cause inconsistent cooking. Aim for uniform sizes for even texture in your soup.
• Forgetting about leftovers: Not storing leftover soup properly can lead to spoilage. Ensure it’s cooled before refrigerating or freezing, and use airtight containers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor.

Freezing Classic Pasta e Fagioli

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Classic Pasta e Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until hot, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring often until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Classic Pasta e Fagioli:

What is Classic Pasta e Fagioli?

Classic Pasta e Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and broth, offering a hearty meal full of flavor.

Can I customize my Classic Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or substitute meats like chicken or turkey according to your taste preferences.

How do I make Classic Pasta e Fagioli vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth while keeping all other ingredients.

What beans are best for Classic Pasta e Fagioli?

Red kidney beans and cannellini beans are commonly used due to their texture but feel free to experiment with others like pinto or black beans.

Final Thoughts

Classic Pasta e Fagioli is not only comforting but also versatile. This recipe allows for plenty of personalization based on what you have on hand. Try it out today and enjoy a delightful bowl of hearty soup that warms the soul!