Pasta Fasoola
Pasta Fasoola is a hearty, comforting dish combining beans, fresh tomatoes, and pasta with fragrant herbs, perfect for a cozy family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and celery in oil until soft.
- Mash the tomatoes and cook the macaroni separately.
- Add mashed tomatoes and cooked macaroni to the onion mixture.
- Add all remaining ingredients including beans, herbs, and salt.
- Simmer the mixture for about 20 minutes.
- Serve topped with grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding diced carrots or bell peppers along with the onion and celery. If you prefer a creamier texture, try adding a splash of heavy cream or evaporated milk towards the end of cooking. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried basil and parsley can be substituted; use about one-third of the amount indicated.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pasta Fasoola with a sprinkle of grated cheese on top and a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with an Avocado Green Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more filling experience, consider serving it alongside a piece of fish or grilled chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the mixture appears too thick. This dish also freezes well; just portion it out before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Fasoola contains roughly 1317 calories, with 13g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1370mg per serving (60% 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 dry beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dry beans, but be sure to soak and cook them until tender before adding them to the recipe. This will require planning ahead, as the cooking time for dry beans is significantly longer.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. To enhance the flavor, consider adding vegetable broth instead of the water, and feel free to load it with your favorite vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
What type of pasta works best?
While salad macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta shape like ditalini or orzo. Just ensure the cooking time aligns with the rest of the ingredients to maintain a cohesive texture.
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).