Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen. This hearty soup, often associated with Italian cuisine, is not only a family favorite but also a wonderful way to utilize pantry staples. With its mix of tender pasta, savory turkey sausage, and nutritious beans, Pasta Fagioli Soup is perfect for any season. Whether you’re sitting down for a cozy evening at home or entertaining guests, this recipe will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds.
Why We Love This Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe
One of the best aspects of Pasta Fagioli Soup is its simplicity. You can whip this up in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. The combination of turkey sausage and fresh vegetables not only provides a hearty flavor but also adds nutritional value to the dish. The beans lend creaminess, while the small pasta adds just the right amount of bite. Plus, this soup is easily customizable based on your personal taste or what you have on hand. It’s hearty, comforting, and absolutely delicious!
Ingredients about Pasta Fagioli Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this scrumptious soup:
- 1 can cannellini beans
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Pasta Fagioli Soup Directions
Making Pasta Fagioli Soup is a straightforward process. Begin by placing a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil to get started. Once the oil is hot, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté this mixture for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. The aroma of the vegetables will start to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the delicious meal to come.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute. Garlic adds an incredible depth of flavor, so make sure it doesn’t burn. Once fragrant, add the sliced turkey sausage to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor in your soup.
After the sausage has browned, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the can of diced tomatoes and drained cannellini beans. This mixture turns into a bubbling broth that’s fragrant and inviting. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Once boiling, it’s time to add the small pasta. Stir it into the pot and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the delicious broth, creating a creamy and hearty consistency.
When your pasta is cooked to perfection, taste the soup one more time to adjust the seasonings if necessary. Serve piping hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Pasta Fagioli Soup
Serving Pasta Fagioli Soup is just as easy as making it. Ladle the soup into bowls and consider accompanying it with a crusty piece of bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated cheese can also enhance the flavors, adding a melty, rich touch. You can keep the bread nearby for dipping into the soup, which enhances the experience and makes each bite even more delightful.
If you’re looking to add an Italian twist, prepare some garlic bread or bruschetta as a side dish. This would complement the heartiness of the soup beautifully. Enjoy your meal with family or friends, taking the time to savor each spoonful. Pasta Fagioli Soup is best enjoyed fresh, but you can always save leftovers for another day!
Expert Tips: Pasta Fagioli Soup
To make the most out of your Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these expert tips. First, always start with quality ingredients, especially your broth. Homemade broth will add depth to the soup, but store-bought works just fine for convenience.
Be mindful of the seasoning. Taste your soup as you go along, and adjust according to your preference. If you like a little more heat, incorporate some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving can also brighten up the flavors remarkably.
Don’t be afraid to use leftover vegetables or any other beans you have on hand. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding zucchini or spinach for extra texture and flavor. The soup can easily adapt to what you have in your kitchen.
Lastly, when cooking the pasta, consider undercooking it slightly, as it will continue to absorb liquid even after being added to the soup. This will prevent the pasta from becoming overly soft, maintaining the perfect toothsomeness.
How to Store Pasta Fagioli Soup
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is quite likely because it’s so good!), storing Pasta Fagioli Soup is simple. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it should last for about 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain the desired consistency.
Variation of Pasta Fagioli Soup
One of the joys of Pasta Fagioli Soup is its versatility. You can easily make variations based on dietary preferences or seasonal ingredients. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the turkey sausage and add more beans or vegetables. You might consider using lentils, mushrooms, or even chickpeas for added texture.
If you’re looking for an enhanced flavor profile, consider adding a dash of pesto or freshly chopped basil just before serving. You can also try incorporating a different variety of beans, such as kidney beans or black beans.
Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes! While ditalini is a classic choice, you can use any small pasta you have on hand like elbow macaroni or even whole grain pasta for added nutrition. With each variation, you’ll discover a new way to enjoy this beloved soup.
FAQ
What is Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Pasta Fagioli Soup is a traditional Italian soup that combines pasta, beans, vegetables, and sometimes meat, creating a comforting and hearty dish filled with flavor and nutrition.
How long does it take to make Pasta Fagioli Soup?
This dish can be made in about 30-45 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for weeknight dinners.
Can I make Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can leave out the turkey sausage and increase the amount of vegetables or beans for a filling vegetarian version.
What can I serve with Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad are excellent accompaniments that pair beautifully with Pasta Fagioli Soup.
Can I freeze Pasta Fagioli Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for later! Just ensure it’s stored in airtight containers, leaving space at the top for expansion.