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!