1. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and aromatic. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 2: Build the Flavorful Broth

  1. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including their juice. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
  2. Add the cannellini beans and red kidney beans, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth and 1 cup of water. Stir to mix thoroughly.
  3. Season the soup with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and the bay leaf. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

  1. While the soup is simmering, cook the ditalini pasta in a separate pot of salted boiling water. Cook it until just shy of al dente, as it will finish cooking in the soup.
  2. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Toss with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine and Finish the Soup

  1. After the soup has simmered and developed its flavor, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed.
  2. Remove the bay leaf.
  3. Stir in the cooked pasta and let it simmer in the soup for 5 minutes. This step allows the pasta to soak up the delicious flavors without becoming mushy.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous mix of beans, pasta, and vegetables.
  2. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
  3. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for extra richness. Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Fagioli

  1. Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
  2. Add Protein: For a heartier version, add cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken to the soup.
  3. Customize the Pasta: Swap ditalini for other small pasta shapes like orzo or small shells, depending on what you have on hand.
  4. Storage Tips: If you plan to store leftovers, keep the pasta separate and add it to the soup when reheating to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples like beans, pasta, and tomatoes make this recipe accessible and budget-friendly.
  • Full of Flavor: Herbs and aromatics infuse the soup with authentic Italian flavors.
  • Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and carbs, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t require a side dish.

Pasta Fagioli is more than just a soup; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is bound to be a hit. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!