Pasta Fasule
A hearty Italian pasta and bean soup with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, perfect for comfort food lovers and suitable for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute sliced garlic and diced onion in oil until translucent.
- Add peeled tomatoes and water; then add cannellini beans and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions; drain.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine.
- Serve immediately topped with grated cheese and crusty bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding diced carrots or celery to the sautéed onion and garlic. If you're out of ditalini pasta, any small pasta shape can work well. For a more robust flavor, try incorporating some Italian herbs like oregano or basil. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for deeper taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Pasta Fasule immediately for the best texture, topped with freshly grated cheese. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider a side of Applebaum'S Italiano Salad to add a fresh and crunchy element. A light drizzle of olive oil enhances the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry. Stir occasionally until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be aware that pasta may soften upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Fasule contains roughly 591 calories, with 9g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value), and iron (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 777mg per serving (34% 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 vegan?
Yes, this recipe is easily made vegan by omitting any cheese on top or using a plant-based cheese alternative. The dish is already packed with flavor from the beans and tomatoes, making it satisfying without dairy.
What can I use instead of cannellini beans?
If cannellini beans are unavailable, you can substitute with great northern beans or navy beans. Both will lend a similar creamy texture and flavor to the dish, ensuring the recipe remains hearty and delicious.
How can I increase the protein content?
To boost protein, consider adding cooked sausage or shredded chicken. Alternatively, more beans can be added, or you could mix in some cooked quinoa or lentils for a vegetarian protein source that complements the other ingredients.
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).