Ditalini & Bean Soup
Ditalini & Bean Soup is a hearty, comforting dish packed with tender beans, savory ham, and pasta, flavored with garlic, onion, and fresh parsley. Its rich tomato base and comforting textures make it perfect for a cozy meal, suitable for lunch or dinner, and ideal for feeding the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté the ham, chopped onion, and minced garlic until tender.
- Add water, tomato sauce, beans, parsley, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Add cooked ditalini pasta to the soup.
- Serve hot with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced carrots and celery along with the onion. You can substitute the Great Northern beans with cannellini beans if preferred. If you want to add more flavor, try using chicken broth instead of water. This soup can also be made vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, topped with grated Romano or Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with an Italian Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be easily doubled for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Ditalini & Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave it in a bowl covered with a microwave-safe lid, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ditalini & Bean Soup contains roughly 1087 calories, with 62g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (235% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (182% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1600mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried Great Northern beans. Soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. Adjust the water accordingly to account for the cooking time of the beans.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the onion and garlic. You could also serve the soup with a dash of hot sauce on the side to let everyone customize their bowl.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, Ditalini & Bean Soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).