Mom'S Pasta Fagioli
A comforting Italian pasta fagioli with cannellini beans, garlic, and tomato sauce, perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown chopped garlic in olive oil over low heat.
- Remove the pan from heat and add the entire can of cannellini beans, including liquid.
- Fill the empty bean can with water three times and add the water to the pan.
- Turn the heat to medium-high and add the tomato sauce, parsley, and garlic powder.
- Cook until the pasta is tender and flavors meld, about 10-15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider incorporating diced carrots and celery along with the garlic. If you're out of cannellini beans, great substitutes include great northern or navy beans. You can also use fresh pasta for a quicker cook time. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to sprinkle in some Italian herbs for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Pasta Fagioli with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. It pairs beautifully with Crispy Italian Bread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of Italian Salad Mix or a light Cold Spaghetti Medley. A glass of red wine can also elevate the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pasta Fagioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears too thick. This dish also freezes well; just cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Pasta Fagioli contains roughly 546 calories, with 20g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 720mg per serving (31% 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 make Pasta Fagioli ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pasta Fagioli tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to adjust the cooking time when reheating, as the pasta will continue to soften.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Pasta Fagioli is naturally vegan! Just ensure that the tomato sauce you use contains no animal products. It's a great option for those looking for hearty vegan recipes that are both satisfying and nutritious.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Small pasta shapes like shells or elbows are ideal for Pasta Fagioli as they hold the sauce well. However, you can use any small pasta you have on hand, including ditalini or even gluten-free options if desired. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
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).