Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's both healthy and easy to make? Look no further than this delicious meatless Pasta Fagioli! This hearty Italian-inspired soup is packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. It’s one of those easy recipes that’s surprisingly impressive, perfect for showcasing your homemade cooking skills without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a testament to how delicious and satisfying healthy meals can be. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
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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 and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, kidney beans, pasta, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pasta Fagioli:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time on the package, as the pasta will continue to cook in the soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is key! Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms, to your Pasta Fagioli.
- Make it a meal prep staple: This soup is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
Variations:
- Spicy Pasta Fagioli: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Pasta Fagioli: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Lemony Pasta Fagioli: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-12g
This meatless Pasta Fagioli recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a healthy and delicious meal. It’s a fantastic example of how easy it is to create impressive and flavorful food recipes from simple ingredients. Enjoy!