Pasta E Fagoli
A comforting Italian soup featuring tomatoes, beans, and pasta, infused with fresh basil and parsley, perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Remove the onion and garlic from the oil.
- Add crushed tomatoes to the pot.
- Stir in basil leaves, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat for 30 minutes.
- Add drained cannelini beans and heat until warmed through.
- Just before serving, add cooked ditalini noodles and mix well.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using a mix of fresh and dried herbs; oregano and thyme pair well with this dish. If you prefer a heartier version, substitute the cannelini beans with chickpeas or lentils. To save time, use store-bought Tomato Sauce For Pasta instead of crushed tomatoes. Don't forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pasta E Fagoli hot, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a vegan twist, omit any cheese toppings and explore more vegan recipes that celebrate the flavors of Italy.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Pasta E Fagoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the pasta and beans, then warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta E Fagoli contains roughly 429 calories, with 30g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (197% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (177% of the Daily Value), and potassium (93% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% 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 this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Just wait to add the ditalini noodles until you're ready to serve to prevent them from becoming mushy.
What types of beans can I use?
While the recipe calls for cannelini beans, you can use any white beans such as navy or great northern beans. For a different texture, try using black beans or kidney beans; they will impart a unique flavor while maintaining the heartiness of the dish.
Can I freeze Pasta E Fagoli?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop, adding a bit of water if necessary.
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).