Pasta Fagioli. The name itself conjures up images of cozy evenings, comforting aromas, and a bowl of hearty goodness. This classic Italian soup is surprisingly easy to make, and my take on Ina Garten's famous recipe makes it even more accessible for busy weeknights. It’s a perfect example of how delicious and healthy food can also be quick dinner ideas, all made with the magic of homemade cooking. Ready to dive in?
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight meal or a planned family dinner.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or small pasta of your choice)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Let's Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Let's create some deliciousness!
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Flavor Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add the Beans and Pasta: Stir in the cannellini beans, great northern beans, and ditalini pasta. Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the soup has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the pasta fagioli into bowls. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired. This hearty soup is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for Pasta Fagioli Perfection
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or beans. Adding spinach, zucchini, or other greens in the last few minutes of cooking adds extra nutrients and color.
- For a Creamier Soup: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
Variations: Explore the Possibilities
- Spicy Pasta Fagioli: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Vegetarian Pasta Fagioli: Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this recipe completely vegetarian.
- Meat Lovers' Pasta Fagioli: Brown some Italian sausage or pancetta before adding the vegetables for a heartier, more flavorful soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-12g
This Barefoot Contessa-inspired Pasta Fagioli is a delicious and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners. It's a flexible dish that caters to different dietary needs and preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!