Pasta And Fagioli
A hearty Italian-inspired pasta and bean soup featuring garlic, tomato, and tender pasta, perfect for a comforting, vegetarian meal that's quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, fry garlic gently in oil until golden brown; do not overcook.
- Add tomato sauce and water (or stock or broth) and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the white beans to the saucepan.
- Stir gently to combine and simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Cook ditalini or pasta al dente (firm but not mushy). Drain and add to the bean mixture.
- Stir gently to combine; if too thick, add some water in which the pasta was cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding some Italian herbs like oregano or basil. If you prefer a heartier dish, substitute the white beans with chickpeas or lentils. For a vegetarian version, ensure your broth is vegetable-based. You can also use any small pasta shape if ditalini isn't available. For a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pasta and Fagioli warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. It pairs beautifully with Hot Italian Bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a burst of color, consider adding some chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent the pasta from drying out, and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta And Fagioli contains roughly 1441 calories, with 11g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 134g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 663mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth instead of water and ensuring that the pasta is egg-free. The white beans provide a good source of protein, making it a satisfying meal without animal products.
What can I add to make it more filling?
To make Pasta and Fagioli more filling, consider adding diced vegetables such as carrots, celery, or spinach during the cooking process. You can also serve it with crusty bread or a side of Italian recipes like bruschetta for a heartier meal.
How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If your Pasta and Fagioli is too thick, simply stir in a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water or additional broth until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
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).