Paste E Fagioli(Bean Soup)
A hearty Italian bean soup with tender spaghetti, fresh herbs, and savory tomato sauce, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt a little butter in a saucepan.
- Add minced celery with leaves, minced onions, and minced parsley.
- Cook over medium heat until wilted.
- Add the beans with liquid, water, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
- While the soup simmers gently, break up the spaghetti and boil in salted, boiling water until al dente, about 5 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the soup.
- Cook for about 5 minutes longer, then serve hot in bowls with fresh minced parsley and grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Paste E Fagioli, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity or a spoonful of pesto for richness. If you don't have kidney or Great Northern beans, navy beans work as a great substitute. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or omit it entirely. This dish can also be made vegan by using vegetable broth instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Paste E Fagioli hot, garnished with fresh minced parsley and grated cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad, such as Sherry D'S Spaghetti Salad, for a complete meal. Consider offering a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top for a finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore the soup's consistency, as pasta tends to absorb liquid. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paste E Fagioli(Bean Soup) contains roughly 181 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 505mg per serving (22% 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 soup ahead of time?
Yes, Paste E Fagioli can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully overnight. Just be aware that the pasta may absorb some liquid as it sits, so you might need to add more water or broth when reheating.
What can I serve with Paste E Fagioli?
This hearty soup is great on its own but can be complemented with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside Fried Italian Potatoes for a comforting combination.
Can I freeze Paste E Fagioli?
Yes, you can freeze this soup, but it's best to do so without the pasta. Cooked pasta can become mushy when thawed. Store the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
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).