Pasta Fagoli(Italian Soup)
A hearty Italian soup featuring navy beans, ditalini pasta, and crushed tomatoes, flavored with garlic and herbs, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the garlic in 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the navy beans, remaining olive oil, and all seasonings including parsley, basil, onion salt, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the pasta as directed on the package.
- Drain almost half of the water off the cooked pasta.
- Add the drained pasta, crushed tomatoes, and the bean mixture to a pot.
- Stir everything together and heat for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced carrots and celery when browning the garlic. You can use any small pasta, such as ditalini or even rigatoni, instead of the traditional shapes. If you prefer a vegetarian version, opt for vegetable broth instead of water. Adjust seasonings to taste, and feel free to add more herbs like thyme for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread for a fulfilling meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavors beautifully. For a complete Italian experience, consider pairing it with a side of Easy Pickled Mushrooms or a fresh salad. This dish also goes well with grilled Italian steak for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened. This soup can also be frozen; just ensure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Fagoli(Italian Soup) contains roughly 337 calories, with 19g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 550mg per serving (24% 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 other types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While navy beans are traditional, you can substitute them with cannellini or chickpeas for a different texture and flavor. Each variety will lend a unique taste to the soup, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
Is this soup suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring that no animal-based broth is used. Additionally, double-check any toppings like cheese if serving. The flavors from the beans and spices offer a hearty meal without any animal products.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you sauté the garlic. You can also top the soup with a drizzle of hot sauce or serve with Giovanni Peppers on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
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).