Pasta and Beans Soup is a comforting dish that beautifully marries hearty pasta with nutritious beans, creating a wholesome meal that is perfect for any time of year. This delightful blend of ingredients not only warms your belly but also nourishes your soul. You’ll soon discover that preparing this soup is as easy as it is rewarding, offering a savory experience that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Why We Love This Pasta and Beans Soup Recipe
There’s something magical about a bowl of Pasta and Beans Soup that lifts your spirits and delights your taste buds. This recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend. It’s a one-pot dish that merges flavors beautifully, allowing you to enjoy every spoonful loaded with beans, pasta, and savory broth. Plus, this soup is incredibly nutritious, providing a great source of protein and fiber. You can also customize it based on what you have on hand, making it a fantastic choice for using up pantry staples.
Ingredients about Pasta and Beans Soup
To prepare this delicious Pasta and Beans Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Pasta and Beans Soup Directions
Making Pasta and Beans Soup is straightforward and requires only one pot, which means less cleanup for you—a definite bonus! Start by placing a large pot over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and aromatic. This step creates a flavorful base that will enhance the entire dish.
Next, introduce the diced tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well, ensuring that everything is combined. Allow this mixture to come to a lively boil, which helps intensify the flavors. Once boiling, add both the kidney and cannellini beans, along with the dried oregano, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir and reduce the heat, letting the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This simmering time allows the beans to warm thoroughly and the herbs to infuse their flavors into the soup.
After the simmering period, it’s pasta time! Add in the small pasta of your choice. Let it cook for another 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly tender. You will notice that the soup transforms as the pasta absorbs the rich flavors of the broth. Once done, it’s time to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls, and don’t forget to garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Serve Pasta and Beans Soup
Serving your Pasta and Beans Soup can be as creative as you like. Opt for rustic soup bowls for an inviting presentation. A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful creaminess that contrasts with the soup’s robustness. You might also consider serving it alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping, as this adds an element of satisfaction to your meal.
To elevate your serving experience, you can garnish with fresh parsley. This simple touch not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh herbal note that brightens up the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider offering a side of your favorite salad for a refreshing balance of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed with family on a cozy night or served at a casual gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress.
Expert Tips: Pasta and Beans Soup
To ensure your Pasta and Beans Soup is a hit, keep these expert tips in mind. First, feel free to adjust the vegetable amounts based on your personal preferences or what you have available. Adding zucchini or spinach can introduce additional flavors and nutrients.
For a creamier soup, consider blending a portion of the soup to create a smooth texture, then stir it back into the pot. This method offers a delightful contrast between the velvety soup and the hearty beans and pasta. Likewise, if you prefer a spicier kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process.
Lastly, remember that the quality of your broth can significantly impact the final flavor. Using homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought option will elevate your soup and make it more enjoyable.
How to Store Pasta and Beans Soup
Storing your Pasta and Beans Soup is relatively simple, and it’s a great meal prep option. If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Stored effectively, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together as it sits, making the soup even tastier when reheated.
Be mindful that pasta tends to absorb liquid, which can alter the soup’s consistency when it’s stored. If you find the soup too thick upon reheating, adding a splash of broth or water can help restore its original texture. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in freezer-safe containers. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove until piping hot.
Variation of Pasta and Beans Soup
The beauty of Pasta and Beans Soup lies in its adaptability. You can easily make it your own by experimenting with a variety of ingredients. For instance, try adding different types of beans, such as black beans or chickpeas, for distinct flavors and textures. Incorporating seasonal vegetables like kale, spinach, or bell peppers can also give the soup a fresh twist.
If you desire a heartier option, you might include diced potatoes or even a handful of cooked sausage or chicken for added protein. Veggie lovers can further enhance the soup with an array of colorful vegetables—don’t hesitate to toss in whatever you have on hand. Additionally, if you prefer a creamier base, adding a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving can provide a delightful richness.
Ultimately, the variations are endless, allowing you to customize your Pasta and Beans Soup based on your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have stocked in your pantry.
FAQ
What is Pasta and Beans Soup?
Pasta and Beans Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines pasta, a variety of beans, and flavorful broth, often accompanied by vegetables and seasonings. It’s a comforting meal that can be customized to suit your tastes.
Can I make Pasta and Beans Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you can also enhance the veggie content with more vegetables or different beans. This makes for a healthy, plant-based meal.
How long does Pasta and Beans Soup take to prepare?
This soup is relatively quick to make, usually requiring about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. Most of the time is spent letting the soup simmer and allowing the flavors to meld.
Can I freeze Pasta and Beans Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. It stays fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember that the pasta might soak up some of the soup’s liquid, so you may need to add a little broth or water when reheating.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even mini shells work best for Pasta and Beans Soup. These shapes fit nicely in the soup and blend well with the beans and vegetables.
Pasta and Beans Soup
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
Soup Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
Garnishes
- Grated Parmesan cheese For serving
- Fresh parsley For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and aromatic.
Cooking
- Stir in diced tomatoes and broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add kidney beans, cannellini beans, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir well and reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add small pasta. Cook for another 10 to 12 minutes until pasta is tender.
Serving
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
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