Discover the ultimate Pasta Fagioli recipe! Featuring savory sausage, creamy beans, rich tomatoes, and tender pasta, this Italian comfort dish warms the soul.
Hearty Italian Comfort: Unveiling the Ultimate Pasta Fagioli Delight
Italy’s culinary landscape offers a multitude of comforting dishes that have warmed the hearts and homes of people around the world, and Pasta Fagioli is no exception. Known affectionately as "pasta fazool" in Italian-American communities, this timeless soup is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. It combines hearty beans, tender pasta, and aromatic vegetables in a tomato-rich broth, offering a nourishing meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you're seeking solace in the chilly months or simply craving a touch of Italian comfort, this Pasta Fagioli recipe is set to become a firm favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 ribs of celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (15-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can of cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can of red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup of ditalini or small shell pasta
- 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Base:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot, stirring continuously for about a minute until fragrant and golden.
Build Flavor:
- Incorporate the diced carrots and celery into the mix, sautéing for another 5-6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Sprinkle the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to evenly coat the vegetables with the spices.
Create the Broth:
- Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the Beans and Pasta:
- Stir in the cannellini and kidney beans, ensuring they're well-mixed with the broth.
- Add the pasta to the pot, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still al dente.
Finish with Cheese:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts into the soup, lending a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the Pasta Fagioli into serving bowls. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a scatter of chopped fresh parsley or basil.
- For an added layer of flavor, drizzle a little olive oil over the top.
Conclusion:
Every spoonful of this Pasta Fagioli delivers comfort and satisfaction, embodying the warmth of Italian home cooking in a single bowl. The harmonious blend of savory broth, tender beans, and bite-sized pasta makes it an ideal dish for any occasion. It is perfect for sharing a cozy evening with loved ones or indulging in a solo meal of solace. Simple yet profound, this recipe reaffirms why this classic soup remains enduringly popular. Prepare, savor, and repeat; once you've tasted Pasta Fagioli at its finest, you'll find excuses to make it again and again. Buon appetito!