Print

Easy Pasta Fagioli

Easy Pasta Fagioli
Print Recipe

Easy Pasta Fagioli is a classic Italian soup that combines tender pasta, creamy cannellini beans, and fragrant herbs, creating a warm, hearty, and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Quick to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, this soup delivers satisfying flavor and nutritious goodness in every spoonful.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) canned tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Pasta

  • 3/4 cup small pasta shapes (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells)

Finishing Touches

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Extra olive oil for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes, to form the flavor base of the soup.
  2. Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Herbs – Pour in the canned tomatoes along with the chopped rosemary and thyme. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
  3. Step 3: Pour in Broth and Beans – Add the vegetable or chicken broth and the rinsed cannellini beans. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to develop a rich flavor.
  4. Step 4: Cook the Pasta – Stir in the small pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, ensuring the pasta retains a firm texture without becoming mushy.
  5. Step 5: Season and Finish – Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh chopped parsley for brightness. Optionally, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Use dry cannellini beans soaked and cooked for deeper flavor if time permits.
  • Monitor the pasta closely to avoid overcooking and mushiness.
  • Season gradually, tasting as you go to prevent over-salting.
  • Toast fresh herbs lightly in olive oil before adding liquids for enhanced aroma.
  • Adding a Parmesan rind during simmering adds umami; remove before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pasta Fagioli, Italian soup, cannellini beans, comfort food, easy soup, hearty soup, quick dinner

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/easy-pasta-fagioli/