Vegetarian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Pasta Fagioli, an Italian classic, is a hearty soup made with pasta and beans. This vegetarian version is both comforting and nutritious, perfect for a cozy meal. Below is a detailed recipe to prepare this delicious dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup small pasta shells (or ditalini)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
  • Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables:

    • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

    Add Tomato Paste and Spices:

      • Push the vegetables to the side of the pot and add the tomato paste. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently.
      • Mix in the oregano and red pepper flakes if using.

      Combine with Broth and Beans:

        • Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, and cannellini beans to the pot.
        • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

        Cook the Pasta:

          • While the soup simmers, cook the pasta separately according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

          Finish the Soup:

            • After simmering, stir in the cooked pasta. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
            • Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to combine flavors.

            Serve:

              • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

              Tips

              • For a gluten-free version, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
              • You can store leftovers in separate containers for up to 4 days; keep pasta separate from soup to prevent sogginess.
              • Adding a Parmesan rind while cooking can enhance flavor; just remove it before serving.

              This vegetarian Pasta Fagioli is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect choice for any meal! Enjoy your cooking!

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