Pasta Fagioli Recipe:30-Minute Healthy Soup

Pasta Fagioli is a timeless Italian soup that brings comfort and warmth to every bowl. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with family and friends, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. The blend of beans, pasta, and rich tomato broth makes it a satisfying and healthy choice. With various cooking methods available, including stovetop, slow cooker, and Instant Pot, it’s a versatile recipe that fits any kitchen. Here, we’ll guide you through a simple and wholesome Pasta Fagioli recipe that is sure to become your new go-to comfort food.

Why You’ll Love Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Fagioli is a well-balanced meal that’s both filling and nutritious. It’s a one-pot wonder that combines the heartiness of beans with the comforting texture of pasta, all simmered in a savory tomato base. This dish is perfect for those seeking a quick, healthy, and budget-friendly meal. Packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, Pasta Fagioli is also naturally vegetarian, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Whether made on the stove, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot, it’s incredibly easy to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this easy and healthy Pasta Fagioli, gather the following ingredients:

• Olive Oil: Adds richness and depth to the soup’s base.
• Onion and Garlic: These two ingredients are essential for building the flavor profile.
• Carrots: Offer a slight sweetness and vibrant color.
• Cannellini Beans: The star of the dish, adding a creamy texture and a protein boost.
• Tomato Sauce: Creates a savory, rich broth.
• Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, parsley, and red pepper flakes bring aromatic flavors to the soup.
• Vegetable Broth: A base liquid that enhances the soup’s flavor.
• Ditalini Pasta: Traditional small pasta, perfect for soaking up the broth.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make substitutions based on dietary needs or available ingredients, here are some ideas:

• Pasta: You can swap ditalini for elbow macaroni or baby shells.
• Beans: Great Northern or navy beans work well if cannellini beans aren’t available.
• Vegetable Broth: You can use chicken broth for a non-vegan version or beef broth for a richer taste.
• Oil: Avocado oil or melted butter can replace olive oil if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Pasta Fagioli is easy and can be done in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re using a stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker, the process remains straightforward.

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, garlic, and carrots. If you’re in a rush, using a food processor can save time.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onions, garlic, and carrots for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Add the Beans and Broth: Stir in the cannellini beans, tomato sauce, herbs, vegetable broth, and water.
4. Bring to a Boil: Cover the pot, increase the heat to high, and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and stir occasionally.
5. Cook the Pasta: Add the dry pasta and cook until it’s halfway done (undercook by half the time recommended on the package).
6. Serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste the soup, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper.

Tips for the Best Pasta Fagioli

• Undercook the Pasta: To avoid mushy pasta, cook it just until al dente and remove it from heat. The pasta will continue cooking as it sits in the soup.
• Use Canned Beans: Save time by using canned beans. Make sure to rinse them well to reduce excess sodium.
• Add a Parmesan Cheese Rind: For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a parmesan cheese rind during cooking, then remove it before serving.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to tweak the seasonings to suit your tastes. Add more red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or extra herbs for a fragrant aroma.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Pasta Fagioli pairs beautifully with crusty bread and a side salad. For a complete meal, serve it with a fresh green salad, like a honey mustard chicken salad, or top it with some grated parmesan cheese for added richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding spinach or extra vegetables to the soup for added nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Pasta Fagioli is a great dish for meal prep. You can store the soup in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage. Keep in mind that the pasta will absorb some of the broth when refrigerated or frozen, so you may need to add a little more broth when reheating.

The Health Benefits of Pasta Fagioli

Not only is Pasta Fagioli a comforting dish, but it also offers numerous health benefits. Packed with fiber from the beans and vegetables, it’s excellent for digestion. The beans also provide plant-based protein, making this soup filling and satisfying without any meat. Plus, the broth is low in calories yet rich in essential nutrients, making it a heart-healthy choice.

Conclusion

Pasta Fagioli is more than just a comforting meal—it’s a true Italian classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bowl. With its wholesome ingredients and versatile cooking methods, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or prepping it for meal prep, Pasta Fagioli is guaranteed to impress with its rich, savory flavors and hearty texture. Simple, nutritious, and absolutely delicious, it’s no wonder this dish is beloved across the world.

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see just how easy it is to create a satisfying, healthy meal that tastes just like it came from an Italian kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this deliciously easy Pasta Fagioli!

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