Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup) - Gluten Free Cooking Guide

Made with inexpensive, wholesome ingredients and packed with rich flavor, this authentic Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup) is a celebration of traditional Italian warmth and simplicity. Perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep for the week, this dish shines with its comforting flavors and nutritional benefits.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 50 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup is not only filling but also loaded with nutrients.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a hearty main course or a delightful starter; it’s adaptable to any occasion.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients keeps costs low without compromising flavor.
Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of herbs, turkey, and tomatoes creates a warm and satisfying taste experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smoother, having the right tools is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Chopping board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Large Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution, allowing your soup to simmer perfectly without burning.
Chopping board and knife: Essential for prepping your ingredients quickly and safely.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of ingredients for consistent results every time.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Made with inexpensive, wholesome ingredients and packed with rich flavor, this authentic Pasta e Fagioli is a celebration of traditional Italian warmth and simplicity.

For the Soup Base

1 tablespoon olive oil
4 ounces diced turkey strips
1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
2 carrots (peeled and chopped)
2 stalks celery (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary (or 3/4 teaspoon dried)
1 parmesan rind (optional)
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 quart reduced sodium chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups water
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Beans and Pasta

2 cans (15.5 oz) reduced sodium cannellini or borlotti beans, drained and rinsed
1 ½ cups ditalini pasta or other small pasta
Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and olive oil for serving

How to Make Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced turkey strips and cook for about 4–5 minutes until browned.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook while stirring occasionally until they are softened, which should take around 5–6 minutes. Then add the garlic and rosemary, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the optional parmesan rind along with crushed tomatoes, broth, water, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Prepare Bean Paste

In a separate bowl, place about a quarter cup of beans along with a little cooking liquid. Mash the beans using a fork to create a paste. Add this paste back into the pot along with the remaining whole beans.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring your soup to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. Let it cook for 10–15 minutes. Afterward, add the pasta to the pot. Cover it up again and cook for another 10–12 minutes until the pasta is fully cooked.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup before serving to adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thinner consistency, feel free to add more water at this stage. Ladle into bowls, topping each serving with grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Remember that the soup will thicken as it stands!

How to Serve Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

Serving Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its traditional Italian charm.

Classic Presentation

Serve it hot in large bowls, garnished with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for added flavor.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil just before serving to elevate the taste profile.

Accompanying Bread

Pair with crusty Italian bread or ciabatta for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
Offer garlic bread on the side for a flavorful twist.

Fresh Salad

A simple mixed green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. Use a light vinaigrette dressing.
Consider a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil to maintain an Italian theme.

Seasonal Toppings

Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Include a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness that balances the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

To achieve an authentic and delicious Pasta e Fagioli, consider these essential tips.

Use quality broth: Start with homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken or vegetable broth for rich flavor.
Cook pasta separately: To prevent mushiness, cook pasta al dente separately and add it just before serving.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary adds depth; don’t skip it! Dried herbs can work in a pinch but won’t provide the same aroma.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance all flavors.
Let it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding more water if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

Pairing side dishes with your Pasta e Fagioli can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil adds freshness.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until tender complements the soup well.
Garlic Knots: Soft knots of dough brushed with garlic butter make for a perfect dipping companion.
Antipasto Platter: An assortment of marinated olives, artichokes, and cheeses offers variety and enhances the Italian dining experience.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or vegetables add substance alongside your soup.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing balances out the hearty flavors of Pasta e Fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pasta e Fagioli can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that could affect the outcome. Here’s what to watch out for:

Boldly ignore the broth: Using low-quality broth can make your soup taste bland. Always opt for reduced sodium chicken or vegetable broth for rich flavor.
Boldly skip the soaking: Not rinsing the beans can lead to a gritty texture. Drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly before adding them to your soup.
Boldly overcook the pasta: Cooking pasta too long in the soup can result in mushy noodles. Add it during the last 10-12 minutes of cooking to keep it al dente.
Boldly forget aromatics: Skipping fresh herbs like rosemary will dull the flavor. Be sure to include them for an authentic taste.
Boldly neglect seasoning adjustments: Not tasting the soup before serving might leave it under-seasoned. Always adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup)

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until steaming.
Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pasta e Fagioli that may help you enjoy this dish even more!

What is Pasta e Fagioli?

Pasta e Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta and beans, often enriched with vegetables and herbs, creating a hearty meal.

Can I customize my Pasta e Fagioli?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like spinach or zucchini, use various types of beans, or switch up the pasta shape based on your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Pasta e Fagioli?

Store any leftover Pasta e Fagioli in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Is this Pasta e Fagioli recipe vegan-friendly?

This recipe features turkey but can easily be made vegan by omitting it and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Pasta e Fagioli (Pasta and Beans Soup) is not only comforting but also versatile enough to fit any occasion. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or beans for a personal touch!