Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

This Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to leisurely weekend meals, this soup showcases the best of Italian cuisine. With its hearty ingredients and savory spices, it’s not just a meal but a comforting experience everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a robust taste that brings Italy right to your kitchen.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup is a nutritious option for any meal.
• Versatile: Easily customizable by adding your favorite veggies or using plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time and can be made in under an hour.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering all the ingredients together, ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to dice onions, carrots, and other vegetables without hassle.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey or chicken sausage
• 1 large yellow onion
• 3 medium carrots
• 2 medium celery ribs
• 4 cloves garlic

For the Broth

• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 can cannellini beans
• 1 can red kidney beans
• 1 can diced tomatoes

For the Pasta

• 1 cup dried pasta (elbow macaroni or ditalini)

For Flavor

• Fresh herbs: rosemary and thyme

How to Make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Cook the ground turkey sausage for 4–5 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add diced onion, carrots, celery, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Sauté for about 6 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Beans

Add chicken broth, cannellini beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the pasta and simmer for another 9–10 minutes until cooked al dente.

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove bay leaves before serving and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup can enhance its deliciousness and create a comforting meal experience. Pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate this heartwarming dish even further.

With Fresh Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: These breads are perfect for dipping into the rich broth, soaking up all the flavors.
• Garlic Bread: A buttery garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor and is always a crowd-pleaser.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar, minus any animal-derived ingredients, makes for a hearty side that complements the soup well.

With Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan on top of each bowl adds richness and depth to the soup’s flavor.
• Vegan Cheese Option: For a dairy-free choice, sprinkle on some plant-based cheese for added creaminess.

How to Perfect Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

To ensure your Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is flavorful and satisfying, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will greatly enhance the taste of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak salt and pepper levels according to your preference; tasting as you go is key.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• Consider Texture: If you like thicker soups, mash some beans before adding them for a creamier consistency.
• Customize Your Pasta: Use different pasta shapes based on your preference; just ensure it’s cooked al dente.
• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate more vegetables such as spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic makes for a delightful appetizer.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a warm and savory touch that complements the soup’s flavors.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer a colorful and nutritious side option.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make a refreshing addition to balance the rich soup.
5. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes can be served alongside or topped with the soup for added texture.
6. Grilled Vegetable Platter: A variety of grilled vegetables provide smoky flavors that pair beautifully with the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using low-quality or old ingredients can lead to a bland soup. Always opt for fresh vegetables and quality broth.
• Bold neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your soup properly can make it taste flat. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Bold overcooking pasta: Cooking pasta too long in the soup can cause it to become mushy. Add pasta towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
• Bold skipping herbs: Fresh herbs add depth to your soup. Don’t skip this step; instead, chop and stir them in just before serving.
• Bold ignoring resting time: Allowing the soup to rest enhances its flavors. Let it sit for about 10 minutes after cooking before serving for the best taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• The soup will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze the soup in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup.

What is Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty and comforting dish made with beans, vegetables, lean meats, and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth.

Can I make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground turkey with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether for a delicious vegetarian option.

How long does it take to make Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup?

The total time to prepare this soup is approximately 45 minutes, including both prep and cooking time.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your soup by adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Italian Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also versatile and nutritious. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Experiment with different vegetables or types of beans to create your own unique version of this classic dish!