Pasta Fagioli

Pasta fagioli is a classic Italian-American dish that warms the soul with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This delightful soup combines tender cannellini beans, ditalini pasta, and savory turkey strips in a tomato base, making it perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with friends, this Pasta Fagioli recipe fits the bill!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of beans, turkey, and spices creates a warm and inviting flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe can be customized with different pasta shapes or spices to match your taste preferences.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from turkey and fiber from beans, this dish is both filling and healthy.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later meals.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Pasta Fagioli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy pot
• Wooden spoon
• Immersion blender (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy pot: Ideal for even cooking and preventing sticking when sautéing ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Great for mixing without scratching your cookware while allowing you to crush beans easily.
• Immersion blender: Perfect for blending the soup smoothly without needing to transfer it out of the pot.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 ounces turkey strips (diced)
– 5 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper flakes

For the Beans & Pasta
– 3 16 ounce cans cannellini beans (drained, but don’t rinse)
– 6 cups water (to start but add more as needed)
– 3 plum tomatoes (hand crushed, note: just 3 plum tomatoes from 1 can – that’s it!)
– 1 sprig rosemary (optional)
– 2 cups ditalini pasta (or small shells, elbows, etc)
– 1 Parmigiano rind (optional)
– salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Pasta Fagioli

Step 1: Sauté Turkey Strips

In a large heavy pot, sauté the diced turkey strips in olive oil over medium heat for about 7-10 minutes until they render most of their fat.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Next, add the diced onions to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Then incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden. Finally, stir in the crushed hot red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add in six cups of water along with one teaspoon of kosher salt and the hand-crushed plum tomatoes. Stir everything together before adding the drained cannellini beans, rosemary if desired, and Parmigiano rind. Bring to a boil for five minutes.

Step 4: Blend Beans for Texture

Lower the heat to medium. Crush some of the beans by smashing them against the side of the pot with a wooden spoon. For an even creamier consistency, use an immersion blender or pulse one-third of the beans in a standard blender. Remember not to blend too much; maintaining some whole bean texture is key!

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Stir in your chosen pasta and cook until al dente. Keep stirring frequently to prevent sticking as the pasta absorbs liquid. Add more water as necessary based on your preferred soup consistency—if you like it soupier, don’t hesitate to add more!

Step 6: Final Taste Adjustments

Once your pasta reaches al dente perfection, turn off the heat. Taste your creation and adjust with more salt, pepper, or hot red pepper according to your preference.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your delicious Pasta Fagioli in bowls alongside crusty bread. Offer grated cheese, extra hot red pepper flakes, or black pepper on the side for guests to customize their bowls. Drizzle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil before enjoying!

How to Serve Pasta Fagioli

Pasta fagioli is a hearty and delicious dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your pasta fagioli.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of fresh crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. A good sourdough or rustic Italian loaf works best.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for added freshness and color. This will also enhance the aroma of your dish.

Accompanied by Grated Cheese

• Offer grated Parmigiano Reggiano on the side for guests to add their desired amount. The cheese adds a rich creaminess to each bowl.

With Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil over each serving. This adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup.

Side Salad

• Pair with a light side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing balances the richness of the pasta fagioli nicely.

How to Perfect Pasta Fagioli

Creating the perfect pasta fagioli involves paying attention to details that can elevate the dish. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible for enhanced flavor.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, cook it longer after adding the pasta. For a soupier version, add more water as needed.

• Flavor Development: Allow your soup to simmer longer if you have time; this deepens the flavors significantly.

• Tweak Seasoning: Always taste before serving! Adjust salt, pepper, and spice levels according to your preference for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Fagioli

Complementing your pasta fagioli with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that pair beautifully with this comforting soup.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a crunchy texture that contrasts well with the creamy soup.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and a refreshing element that balances the richness of pasta fagioli.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, such as carrots and zucchini, bring vibrant colors and flavors to your meal.

4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a light and tasty accompaniment.

5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables can serve as an appetizer before diving into the main dish.

6. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia topped with rosemary is perfect for dipping into the savory broth of pasta fagioli.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Pasta Fagioli. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the turkey and aromatics enhances flavors. Don’t rush this step; spend the time to develop a rich base.
• Overcooking pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it will become mushy. Always aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the soup.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Taste frequently and adjust salt and pepper to elevate the flavors.
• Using canned beans without draining: While you don’t need to rinse cannellini beans, draining them helps prevent excess starchiness. Make sure to drain but do not rinse.
• Ignoring consistency preferences: Everyone has a different preference for soup thickness. Adjust the liquid by adding more water if you prefer a soupier Pasta Fagioli.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Pasta Fagioli

• item You can freeze Pasta Fagioli for up to 3 months.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Pasta Fagioli

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place Pasta Fagioli in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if it thickens too much while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta Fagioli?

Pasta Fagioli is a hearty Italian-American soup made with beans, pasta, tomatoes, and meat or vegetables, known for its comforting flavors.

Can I make Pasta Fagioli vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily omit the turkey and use vegetable broth instead of water for a delicious vegetarian version of Pasta Fagioli.

How can I customize my Pasta Fagioli?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini or switch up the pasta shape according to your preference for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Is there a gluten-free option for Pasta Fagioli?

Yes! Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta options to enjoy this recipe without gluten.

How long does it take to make Pasta Fagioli?

The total time for making Pasta Fagioli is about 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Pasta Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile. Its comforting nature makes it perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, whether it’s extra veggies or different types of pasta. Enjoy making this delightful soup!