Pasta Fagioli: A Comforting Classic That’s Bound to Be a Hit
Pasta Fagioli (pronounced "pasta fah-zool") is a hearty Italian dish that translates to "pasta and beans." Packed with flavor, this one-pot meal combines tender pasta, creamy beans, aromatic vegetables, and savory broth. It’s a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or when you need a warm, comforting meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a Pasta Fagioli recipe that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
For the Soup:
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water (as needed for consistency)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta shape like elbow or shells)
For Serving:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A drizzle of olive oil
- Crusty bread (optional, for dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Base
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
