Pasta Fagioli Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights when you want something hearty and satisfying. This traditional dish is a staple in Italian cuisine, blending pasta and beans into a warm, savory broth. The combination of flavors creates a cozy atmosphere, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a hearty pasta fagioli recipe to impress guests, this soup is sure to please. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful soup!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Fagioli Soup
This Pasta Fagioli Soup is not just filling; it’s also nutritious and versatile. Here are six reasons to love this dish:
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich in protein and fiber, thanks to the beans and pasta.
- Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free with simple substitutions.
- Offers a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul.
- Great for meal prep; it keeps well in the fridge or freezer.
- Allows for endless variations, from adding different vegetables to spices.
This dish is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and hearty meal without extensive cooking time. It’s the perfect example of an authentic Italian pasta e fagioli.
Ingredients for Pasta Fagioli Soup
Gather these items:
- 1 pound Italian Turkey Sausage Links (can substitute with chicken sausage or omit for a vegetarian version)
- 1 medium Onion (yellow or white onion preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Canola Oil (olive oil can be used as a healthy substitute)
- 2 cloves Garlic Clove (fresh garlic is preferable)
- 4 cups Water (use low-sodium chicken broth for deeper flavor)
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes (crushed tomatoes can be used for different texture)
- 4 cups Reduced-Sodium Chicken Broth (use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 can Great Northern Beans (substitutes include white cannellini beans or black beans)
- 1 cup Elbow Macaroni (ditalini or gluten-free pasta can be substituted)
- to taste Pepper (adjust to taste; consider red pepper flakes for a spicy kick)
- 1 cup Fresh Spinach (kale or Swiss chard can be excellent alternatives)
- 1/2 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese (replace with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
How to Make Pasta Fagioli Soup Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a large saucepan over medium heat, brown the crumbled Italian turkey sausage until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of canola oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Step 3: Pour in 4 cups of water, rinsed Great Northern beans, diced tomatoes, reduced-sodium chicken broth, uncooked macaroni, and pepper. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Step 4: Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered until the macaroni is al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5: Lower heat, fold in the cooked sausage and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 6: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded Parmesan cheese.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup
Keep these in mind:
- Substitute chicken sausage or omit for a vegetarian version.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth for deeper flavor.
- Consider red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Replace with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- For a creamy pasta fagioli recipe, add a splash of cream or milk at the end.
Best Ways to Serve Pasta Fagioli Soup
This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra flavor boost.
How to Store and Reheat Pasta Fagioli Soup
To store, allow the soup to cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pasta Fagioli Soup
What’s the secret to perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup?
The secret to a perfect Pasta Fagioli Soup lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Using quality ingredients, like fresh herbs and high-quality broth, enhances the overall taste. Adding the macaroni at the right time ensures it remains al dente, providing a delightful bite.
Can I make Pasta Fagioli Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just make sure to store the pasta separately if you plan to freeze it, as it can become mushy when reheated.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Pasta Fagioli Soup?
One common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Always add it last and keep an eye on it to ensure it remains firm. Additionally, adjusting the seasoning at the end can help you achieve the perfect flavor profile.
Variations of Pasta Fagioli Soup You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with these variations:
- Add different types of beans, like black beans or lentils, for a unique twist.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as carrots and zucchini.
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
- Try a slow cooker version for an easy meal that simmers all day.
Each of these variations highlights the versatility of this classic Italian bean soup, ensuring there’s a version for everyone!
For more tips on making the perfect soup, check out our soup guide.
For additional information on the health benefits of beans, visit Healthline.
Enjoy your Pasta Fagioli Soup with a side of crusty bread, and don’t forget to check out our meal prep tips for more ideas!
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Pasta Fagioli Soup: 5 Hearty Variations for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Savory Pasta Fagioli Soup for a Cozy Night In
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian Turkey Sausage Links
- 1 medium Onion
- 2 tablespoons Canola Oil
- 2 cloves Garlic Clove
- 4 cups Water
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes
- 4 cups Reduced-Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 can Great Northern Beans
- 1 cup Elbow Macaroni
- to taste Pepper
- 1 cup Fresh Spinach
- 1/2 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, brown the crumbled Italian turkey sausage until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of canola oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Pour in 4 cups of water, rinsed Great Northern beans, diced tomatoes, reduced-sodium chicken broth, uncooked macaroni, and pepper. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered until the macaroni is al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Lower heat, fold in the cooked sausage and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Substitute chicken sausage or omit for a vegetarian version.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth for deeper flavor.
- Consider red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Replace with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg