Ready for a hearty and cozy dinner? Pasta e Fagioli is the perfect dish to warm up any evening.
This Italian classic combines pasta and beans in a savory broth, creating a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. 🍝🍲
What makes this recipe amazing is its simplicity and rich flavors.
With just a few staple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and comforting dinner that your whole family will love.
Plus, it’s easy enough for any level of cook! 👩🍳👨🍳
Imagine gathering around the table, sharing laughs and stories over a steaming bowl of Pasta e Fagioli.
This dish not only fills the belly but also the heart, making any dinner more special.
So, let’s jump right in and craft a meal that’s sure to become a regular in your home. 😊
Pasta E Fagioli Dinner Recipe
Equipment
- To make Pasta e Fagioli, I gathered some simple equipment:
- Large pot: For cooking everything together.
- Wooden spoon: Helps with stirring the soup.
- Ladle: For serving up the deliciousness.
- Cutting board and knife: Needed for prepping vegetables.
- These are all easy-to-find kitchen tools, so no fancy gadgets are required!
- It keeps things straightforward, making this recipe accessible for everyone.
Ingredients
Here’s what I needed for this tasty dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 ounces
- 1 can cannellini beans 14 ounces, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Parmesan cheese for topping
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
The mix of beans and pasta creates a nutritious and hearty meal. Adding parmesan and parsley makes each bowl special. 🧀🌿
Instructions
Here’s how I put it all together:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Add carrots and celery, cooking until tender.
- Pour in the broth and tomatoes.
- Stir in beans and pasta, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until pasta is cooked.
Serve hot, garnished with parmesan and parsley.
The process is easy, and you’ll have a delightful meal on the table in no time. This recipe is fun to make and even more fun to eat!
Notes
For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth or add extra beans.
If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or water.
Cooking this dish fills my home with incredible aromas. It’s a recipe I turn to again and again! 😋💕
Presentation & Serving
I’m so excited to share how I like to serve my delicious Pasta e Fagioli! 🍽️
I usually serve it in a wide, shallow bowl. This lets everyone see the colorful beans, pasta, and rich broth. It’s got to look as good as it tastes, right? 😊
Equipment
- Shallow bowls
- Large ladle
- Parmesan cheese grater
Ingredients for Topping
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Crusty bread on the side
When serving, I add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a few parsley leaves. These give a nice touch of color and flavor.
Crusty bread on the side is perfect for dipping. It’s the best way to enjoy every bit!
I recommend pouring a tasty olive oil over the bread. This makes it even more special. 🥖
Whip up this cozy dinner for your family. It’s sure to get smiles all around the table. Enjoy your meal! 🍲✨
Storage Tips
I’m excited to share some tips on how to store my delicious Pasta e Fagioli to keep it fresh and tasty! 🍝
Refrigerator:
After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely. Transfer it to airtight containers. It can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer:
For longer storage, the freezer is the way to go. Freeze the soup in individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion.
Reheating Instructions:
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a bit of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.
Pro Tip:
If you plan to freeze leftovers, cook the pasta separately. Add fresh pasta when you reheat to prevent it from becoming mushy. 🥳
By using these tips, you’ll keep your Pasta e Fagioli just as tasty as the day you made it. Enjoy saving your delicious meal for later!
Recipe Variation
Exploring new ways to make Pasta e Fagioli is so much fun! 🍝 There are plenty of variations you can try at home. Here’s how!
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Pasta: Use any type you like—shells, ditalini, or even spaghetti!
- Beans: Try cannellini, kidney, or a mix for more flavor.
- Broth: Use vegetable or chicken based on your taste.
- Vegetables: Add a mix of spinach, zucchini, or carrots.
- Spices: Experiment with oregano, basil, and thyme for different tastes. 🌿
Instructions
- Brown Meat: Use sausage or beef for a richer taste.
- Add Crunch: Top with crispy bacon or croutons.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle with Parmesan or Mozzarella cheese for extra yum. 🧀
Try these easy swaps and make the recipe your own! Each change brings a new twist and, most importantly, keeps things exciting and flavorful. Enjoy your cooking adventure! 😊
Pairing
When I make Pasta e Fagioli for dinner, I love choosing the perfect drink and sides to complete the meal. 🍽️ Here are some of my favorite pairings:
Drinks
- Red Wine: A nice Chianti or Merlot adds warmth.
- Sparkling Water: Refreshing and keeps it light.
- Lemon Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic twist! 🍋
Sides
A beautiful salad or some warm bread helps balance this hearty meal. Here are a few ideas:
- Caesar Salad: Crisp and flavorful.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping! 🥖
- Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil.
Dessert 🍰
Ending with a sweet treat makes it extra special:
- Tiramisu: Creamy and classic.
- Cannoli: A bit of crunch with a sweet filling.
Equipment 🛠️
These tools help me prepare the sides and drinks:
- Wine Opener: For the perfect pour.
- Salad Spinner: To get that salad crisp.
- Baking Tray: Gains a golden crust on the bread.
Each element helps create a memorable dinner. Enjoying the flavors with family or friends makes it even better! 🎉
Tips & Tricks
When I make Pasta e Fagioli, I always try to make it simple and fun! Here are some of my tried-and-true tips to make this dish even better.
Equipment
- Large pot 🥘
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Ingredients
- Use canned beans for ease.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a lot of flavor.
- Bone broth or vegetable broth for depth.
Instructions
- Start by sautéing garlic for extra aroma.
- Add crushed red pepper for a little heat. 🌶️
- Simmer slowly to marry the flavors together.
Flavor Boosts
I love adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for creaminess.
You can also try a splash of olive oil before serving for a rich texture. 🧀
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare some parts ahead of time!
You can chop veggies or even cook the pasta separately. This makes it easy when you’re ready to have dinner.
Storage Tips
This dish stores well in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container and enjoy it for up to three days. 🍽️
Just add a bit of water when reheating to keep it soupy.
Extra Love
Use whole grain pasta for a healthy twist. Also, try experimenting with different beans like black beans or chickpeas for variety and extra color. 💖
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s explore how to master Pasta e Fagioli
How can I make a simple pasta e fagioli dinner at home?
I love starting with basic ingredients. Here’s what I use:
- Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Ingredients:
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Tomatoes
- Canned beans
- Small pasta
- Fresh herbs like parsley
- Instructions:
- Sauté the garlic, onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil.
- Add tomatoes, beans, and herbs.
- Let it simmer and then add pasta.
So easy and delicious!
What’s the secret to a traditional Italian pasta fagioli taste?
The key is using fresh ingredients and good quality olive oil. It makes all the difference!
Don’t forget a fresh bay leaf for authentic flavor. 🌿
What are some pro tips for making pasta fagioli like Jamie Oliver?
Jamie recommends using seasonal vegetables and a mix of beans for texture.
He often adds a sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving. 🧀
Can I get the Barefoot Contessa’s take on pasta fagioli recipe?
Ina Garten loves to add pancetta for a rich, smoky flavor.
She also simmers with chicken stock to deepen the taste. Perfect for a cozy night in! 🥓
What’s the exciting difference between minestrone and pasta fagioli?
While both are hearty soups, minestrone typically includes more vegetables and sometimes meat.
Pasta fagioli focuses on beans and pasta, creating a thicker, comforting bowl. 🥣
What authentic Italian flavor does ‘pasta fagioli’ translate to in English?
In English, ‘pasta fagioli’ translates to ‘pasta and beans’.
Simple and straightforward, just like its delicious taste! 🍲
Recent Posts
Feeling hungry for something special? I've got a treat for you: Magic Pumpkin Scones! 🎃 These scones transform your breakfast into a magical experience with their rich pumpkin flavor and...
I love starting my day with something refreshing and energizing, like an Icy Icicle Iced Coffee. It's as easy as it is delicious! ☕❄️ This breakfast drink is perfect for those who want to...