Pasta Fazzole (Figole)
A hearty Italian-inspired bean and pasta soup with fresh herbs, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal that combines creamy beans, savory tomatoes, and aromatic seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until fragrant and translucent.
- Drain the canned beans and add them to the sautéed onion and garlic.
- Add chopped or blended tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the beans.
- Simmer the mixture for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook small pasta separately according to package instructions.
- Serve the bean and tomato mixture over the cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley and basil.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using fresh tomatoes instead of canned, roasting them for a sweeter flavor. If you're out of parsley, fresh basil or even cilantro can be a great substitute. This dish can also be made heartier by adding sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or skip it entirely for a bean-focused dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Pasta Fazzole with a side of crusty bread, such as Tomato-Herb Bread, for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the flavors well. For a comforting twist, sprinkle some grated cheese on top or pair it with Saucy Italian Meatballs for a heartier option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Fazzole (Figole) contains roughly 194 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% 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 dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans! Soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the recipe. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish, though it will require more time compared to using canned beans.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. The flavors actually improve as it sits, making it an excellent choice for lunches throughout the week. Just remember to store the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni work well, you can also use whole grain or gluten-free pasta according to your preference. Angel Hair Pasta With Spices And Cheese would be a lovely pairing if you're looking for something different!
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).