Classic Pasta Fagioli

Pasta fagioli is a classic Italian soup that offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This hearty dish features ditalini pasta and cannellini beans, all brought to life with savory sautéed turkey strips. It’s perfect for cozy fall and winter evenings or any gathering where comfort food is a must. With its rich taste and satisfying ingredients, you’ll find this recipe to be both nourishing and fulfilling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This classic pasta fagioli comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein from turkey and beans, it’s filling enough to serve as a main course.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust seasonings based on your preferences.
• Healthy Option: With lots of veggies and lean turkey, this soup is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big pot ahead of time; it stores well in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools at hand. Using the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts on vegetables, leading to even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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Ingredients

Pasta fagioli is made with wholesome ingredients that blend together beautifully to create a comforting soup.

Vegetables

• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced

Protein

• 4 oz turkey strips, chopped

Base Ingredients

• 1 28 oz can whole plum tomatoes
• 1 handful basil
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 3/4 cups ditalini

Broth & Beans

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can cannellini beans

Extras

• 1 parmesan rind
• 1 bag spinach, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp tomato paste

How to Make Classic Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté the Turkey Strips

In a large dutch oven or pot, add chopped turkey strips and raise the heat to medium. Sauté until the fat renders and the turkey becomes crispy; this will take about 8 minutes. Stir in the olive oil, carrots, celery, and onions. Sauté for about 10 minutes until softened, adding half of the salt, pepper, and oregano during this process.

Step 2: Add Tomato Paste

Create a well in the center of the vegetables where you can place the tomato paste. Allow it to caramelize in the pot for 3 minutes before mixing it into the vegetables. Stir it throughout the mixture and let everything cook for a few more minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Herbs

Pour crushed tomatoes into the vegetable mixture. Add the basil along with the remaining seasonings and bay leaves. Bring this medley to a simmer.

Step 4: Combine Broth

Pour in the chicken stock and add the parmesan rind. Stir everything together thoroughly before bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat back down to simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Add Beans and Pasta

Introduce cannellini beans and ditalini into your soup mixture. Let it simmer for another 15 minutes until pasta softens, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Finish with Spinach

Add chopped spinach and cover for 3 minutes. Remove lid afterward and stir in spinach until fully mixed in. Finally, remove bay leaves and parmesan rind before serving hot.

How to Serve Classic Pasta Fagioli

Classic Pasta Fagioli is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it correctly enhances the overall dining experience, making it even more delightful. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds a delicious crunch and flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves – A few fresh basil leaves can enhance the Italian essence of the dish.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Grated Parmesan – Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for added richness.
• Mozzarella Balls – Add small mozzarella balls for a creamy texture contrast.

As a Main Dish

• Garnish with Olive Oil – Drizzle a little olive oil over the soup just before serving for extra flavor.
• Serve in Bowls – Use deep bowls to hold plenty of soup and pasta, making it filling as a main course.

How to Perfect Classic Pasta Fagioli

To make your Classic Pasta Fagioli truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure you achieve that perfect blend of flavors and textures.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Opt for high-quality tomatoes and fresh herbs to elevate the taste.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs at different stages of cooking for balance.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Make sure to cook the pasta just until tender to avoid mushiness in the soup.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for a while before serving helps meld the flavors together.
• Experiment with Greens – Try adding kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for different textures and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Pasta Fagioli

Pairing your Classic Pasta Fagioli with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
2. Bruschetta – Topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil, it provides a crunchy appetizer option.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional flavors that complement the soup well.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa make for a hearty side that’s also visually appealing.
5. Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta adds comfort and pairs beautifully with the flavors in your soup.
6. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, artichokes, and cheeses offers variety and enhances your meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Classic Pasta Fagioli can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final taste and texture of your soup.

• Bold flavor: Not seasoning adequately can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Bold texture: Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy. Cook the ditalini just until tender, as it will continue to soften in the hot broth.
• Bold ingredients: Using low-quality canned tomatoes can ruin the soup’s flavor. Opt for high-quality whole plum tomatoes for a richer taste.
• Bold timing: Skipping steps or rushing the sautéing process can lead to unevenly cooked vegetables. Take your time to sauté until they are nicely softened before adding other ingredients.
• Bold layers: Neglecting to layer flavors by caramelizing the tomato paste will diminish depth. Make sure to let it cook before mixing it with vegetables.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Classic Pasta Fagioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will last for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Classic Pasta Fagioli

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for best results.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Classic Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Classic Pasta Fagioli?

Classic Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made primarily from pasta and beans, often featuring vegetables and flavorful broth.

How long does it take to make Classic Pasta Fagioli?

The total time for making Classic Pasta Fagioli is about 60 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Can I customize my Classic Pasta Fagioli?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like zucchini or kale, or even switch out beans for different varieties based on your preference.

Is Classic Pasta Fagioli healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with nutrients from beans and vegetables while being low in calories, making it a healthy meal option.

Final Thoughts

Classic Pasta Fagioli is a delightful and versatile dish that warms you up during colder months. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for customization with your favorite veggies or spices. Try this comforting soup today!