Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that's both easy to make and packed with flavor? Then look no further! This Pasta e Fagioli recipe, inspired by the culinary queen Lidia Bastianich, is the perfect answer. This classic Italian soup is a symphony of simple ingredients, creating a depth of flavor that will transport you straight to a cozy Italian kitchen. It’s a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a light and healthy meal. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients: A Simple Symphony of Flavors
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini 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)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Culinary Journey
Let's embark on a culinary adventure together, creating this flavorful soup step by step.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil 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 vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add the Beans and Pasta: Add the cannellini beans and ditalini pasta to the pot. Stir well to combine. Continue to simmer, uncovered, until the pasta is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the pasta e fagioli into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Pasta e Fagioli Perfection
- For a smoother soup, you can partially blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the pasta.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or diced potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid.
- Don't overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
Variations: Explore the Culinary Possibilities
- Spicy Pasta e Fagioli: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Pasta e Fagioli: Ensure your broth is vegetable-based, and you're good to go!
- Meat Lover's Pasta e Fagioli: Brown some Italian sausage or pancetta before adding the vegetables for a heartier soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fiber: 8-10g
This Pasta e Fagioli recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients transformed into a truly delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy this healthy, easy-to-make recipe, and experience the taste of authentic Italian comfort food in your own home. It’s a recipe you'll want to add to your repertoire of best recipes and quick dinner ideas.