Classic Italian Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli
Pasta e Fagioli, also known as Pasta e Fagioli, is a traditional Italian dish that translates to pasta and beans. This hearty soup is made with pasta, beans, vegetables, and a savory broth, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering, this Italian food classic is ideal for cooler weather when you crave something warm and nourishing. The combination of pasta and beans makes it a filling dish that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious weeknight dinner or planning a special occasion, Pasta e Fagioli is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Serve it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an authentic taste of Italy.
Italian Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup ditalini pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time for beans)
Serves: 4 persons
Cooking time: Approximately 1 hour
Instructions:
(Difficulty Score: 3 out of 10)
Pasta e Fagioli is a classic Italian dish that is hearty and flavorful. This recipe is relatively easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Soak the beans: Place the dried cannellini beans in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- Cook the beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about an hour until beans are tender.
- Cook the pasta: In a separate pot, cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Mash some of the cooked beans to thicken the soup slightly. Add cooked pasta to the pot and stir well.
- Serve hot topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
This Pasta e Fagioli recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or when you’re craving authentic Italian comfort food.
Nutrition: Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta e Fagioli)
Here is the nutrition per serving for Pasta e Fagioli:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 5g
- (Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
Pasta e Fagioli is a classic Italian recipe that combines pasta and beans in a flavorful broth. This dish is rich in protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option. The combination of ingredients also provides essential nutrients such as iron, folate, and potassium.
Overall, Pasta e Fagioli is a healthy choice for those looking to enjoy a traditional Italian dish while still maintaining a balanced diet.
Serving suggestions for Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta e Fagioli)
If you are serving Pasta e Fagioli as a main course, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad dressed with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The lightness of the salad will complement the heartiness of the soup perfectly.
- Another great option is to serve some crusty Italian bread on the side. The bread can be used to soak up every last bit of the delicious broth.
- If you want to add some extra protein to the meal, consider grilling or roasting some Italian sausages and serving them alongside the soup.
- A simple antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables would also make a wonderful accompaniment to Pasta e Fagioli.
What to serve with Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta e Fagioli)
Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty and flavorful dish that can stand on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, there are plenty of options:
- A classic Caprese salad made with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze would be a light and refreshing starter before enjoying the soup.
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant seasoned with Italian herbs would make a tasty side dish for Pasta e Fagioli.
- If you’re in the mood for something more indulgent, consider serving some garlic bread or cheesy focaccia alongside the soup for a truly satisfying meal.
Enhancing the Flavor of Pasta e Fagioli
If you want to elevate the flavor of your Pasta e Fagioli, an Italian classic, there are a few tips you can follow. One way to increase the depth of flavor is by using a combination of different types of beans such as cannellini beans and borlotti beans. This will not only add texture but also enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Another tip is to sauté some pancetta or bacon in the pot before adding the rest of the ingredients. The smoky and salty flavors from the pancetta will infuse into the soup, giving it a rich and savory taste that is characteristic of Italian cuisine.
Adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves can also help enhance the flavor profile of Pasta e Fagioli. These herbs will add complexity and aroma to the dish, making it even more delicious.
Spicy Score: 3 out of 10
I would give this recipe a spicy score of 3 out of 10. While Pasta e Fagioli is not traditionally a spicy dish in Italian cuisine, you can still add a touch of heat by incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This will give the soup a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.