Pasta e Fagioli Recipe

Introduction

Today, let’s dive into the comforting and hearty world of Pasta e Fagioli, an Italian soup traditionally made with pasta and beans. This recipe is a perfect combination of savory Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, vegetables, and beans, all simmered together to create a flavorful and satisfying soup that warms the soul.

Why Make This Recipe

Pasta e Fagioli is a fantastic recipe to make when you’re craving a cozy and nourishing meal. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that can be easily prepared in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting bowl of soup without spending hours in the kitchen. The blend of ingredients creates a harmonious mix of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lb Italian Sausage
• 1 small onion chopped
• 2 carrots chopped
• 2 ribs celery chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• Various dried herbs and spices
• Chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes
• Red kidney beans and cannellini beans
• Tomato paste
• Pasta of your choice
• Salt, pepper, and Parmesan Cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven and cook the sausage with onions, carrots, and celery.
2. Add in garlic and a mix of dried herbs and spices, cooking for extra flavor.
3. Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, and bay leaves. Let it simmer.
4. Whisk a portion of hot broth with tomato paste and add back to the soup.
5. Cook pasta until al dente, then season the soup with salt and pepper.
6. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan Cheese if desired.

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli

Serve your Pasta e Fagioli hot in a bowl, topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan Cheese for added richness. Pair it with some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

How to Store Pasta e Fagioli

Store any leftover Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water to maintain the soup’s consistency.

Tips to Make Pasta e Fagioli

• Use good quality Italian sausage for authentic flavor.
• Adjust the amount of herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Don’t overcook the pasta to keep it from becoming mushy in the soup.

Variation

For a vegetarian version of Pasta e Fagioli, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe? Yes, feel free to use any small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or even broken spaghetti.

2. Can I freeze Pasta e Fagioli? While you can freeze Pasta e Fagioli, be aware that the pasta may become a bit softer upon reheating.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by browning the sausage and vegetables first, then transferring everything to the slow cooker and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.