Pasta e Fagioli Classic Italian (Printable)

Tender pasta and creamy beans in a savory tomato broth create a cozy Italian comfort dish.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 medium carrots, diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced

→ Beans and Pasta

06 - 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
07 - 1 can (15 oz) borlotti or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 3/4 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni)

→ Broth and Tomato

09 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
10 - 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
11 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
12 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
13 - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
14 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnishes

15 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
16 - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
17 - Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

# Method:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 6 to 7 minutes until softened.
02 - Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, chili flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
04 - Add cannellini and borlotti beans. Allow to simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
05 - Add pasta and cook according to package directions, typically 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente, stirring occasionally.
06 - Taste soup and adjust seasoning as needed. If too thick, add additional broth or water.
07 - Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
08 - Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Wholesome and hearty with both pasta and beans
  • Quick and simple to prepare for busy evenings
02 -
  • Pasta continues to soften in the soup after cooking
  • Use gluten-free or dairy-free substitutes as needed for allergens
03 -
  • Add a Parmesan rind while simmering for deeper flavor, then remove before serving
  • Let leftovers rest; soup will thicken and tastes even better the next day
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