Pasta E Fagioli
Italian pasta and bean soup with cannellini, tomato, vegetables, and small pasta.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- b.Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery and cook for 6 minutes until softened.
- c.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
TIPSweat the vegetables slowly to build a sweet, savory base without browning the garlic. - 2
Step 2
- a.Add the tomato, water, dried oregano, and bay leaf to the pot.
- b.Stir in the cooked white beans and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- c.Cook for 12 minutes, then mash a small portion of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the soup.
TIPMashing some of the beans releases starches that create a creamy texture without adding dairy. - 3
Step 3
- a.Add the small pasta to the pot and simmer for 8 minutes until al dente.
- b.Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- c.Remove and discard the bay leaf before serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use a rind from a block of Parmesan cheese. Add it to the pot when you add the broth and let it simmer with the soup. Remove before serving.
- 2To prevent mushy pasta in leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl as you serve. Store the soup and pasta separately.
- 3This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. You may need to add a splash of broth when reheating as it will thicken.
- 4Feel free to use any small pasta shape you have on hand, like small shells, elbows, or even broken spaghetti.
- 5For a vegetarian version, omit the pancetta, use vegetable broth, and sauté the vegetables in an extra tablespoon of olive oil.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Omit the pancetta and use vegetable broth. To add a smoky depth, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika with the other dried herbs.
SpicySpicy
Increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or more. You can also add a diced jalapeño along with the soffritto for extra heat.
Gluten FreeGluten-Free
Substitute the ditalini with your favorite gluten-free small pasta. Be sure to check the cooking time on the package, as it may differ.
Extra GreensExtra Greens
Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or chopped kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted for an extra nutrient boost.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein & Fiber
The combination of cannellini and kidney beans provides a substantial amount of dietary fiber and protein, which aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Source of Essential Vitamins
The 'soffritto' base of carrots, celery, and onions, along with tomatoes, delivers a good dose of vitamins like A, C, and K, which are crucial for immune function, vision, and overall health.
Complete One-Pot Meal
This soup is a balanced and hearty meal in a single bowl, providing complex carbohydrates for energy, protein for muscle maintenance, and healthy fats from olive oil, making it a deeply satisfying and nourishing choice.
Frequently asked questions
A 1.5 cup serving of this Pasta e Fagioli contains approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used, such as the fat content of the pancetta and the amount of cheese added.