Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute love for *Pasta e Fagioli*! This hearty Italian soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, and it brings back all the cozy memories of my family gatherings. Inspired by the beloved Olive Garden recipe, it’s packed with tender pasta and creamy beans that just make your heart sing. Seriously, there’s something magical about the way the flavors meld together, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
What I adore most is how simple yet satisfying this dish is. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a big, warm embrace after a long day. And trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for so many people. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of love, you’ll have a delicious bowl of *Pasta e Fagioli* ready to share with friends or family—or just to enjoy all on your own! So, let’s dive into making this Italian classic that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
Alright, here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious *Pasta e Fagioli*! I promise, these ingredients are simple to find and they come together beautifully to create that hearty goodness we all crave.
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
That’s it! Each ingredient brings its own little magic to the pot. The ditalini pasta is just the perfect size to soak up all that rich broth, while the cannellini beans add a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. And don’t forget the garlic and onion—they bring so much flavor to the party! So gather these goodies, and let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare *Pasta e Fagioli Olive Garden*
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making this mouthwatering *Pasta e Fagioli*! I promise, it’s easier than you might think, and it comes together in just a few steps. Grab your apron and let’s do this!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
First things first! In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want it nice and warm, but not smoking. This is where the magic begins, and you’ll start to smell that lovely olive oil aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once the oil is heated, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. Careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter. Trust me, this step is crucial for building flavor!
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Beans
Next, add in that can of diced tomatoes along with the drained and rinsed cannellini beans. Stir everything together, letting those flavors mingle for another minute or two. It’s looking good already, isn’t it?
Step 4: Incorporate Vegetable Broth
Now it’s time to pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil—this is where the soup starts to come to life! Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to a simmer. This helps all those beautiful flavors blend together perfectly.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Here comes the fun part! Add your 1 cup of ditalini pasta along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. You’ll want to stir occasionally to keep everything from sticking. A quick taste test is the best way to know when it’s just right—don’t be shy!
Step 6: Final Seasoning
Once your pasta is cooked, it’s time to season to taste with salt and black pepper. This is where you can really make it your own, so don’t hold back! Give it a good stir, and let those flavors shine.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Finally, ladle your delicious *Pasta e Fagioli* into bowls and serve it hot. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Trust me, it looks as good as it tastes! Grab your spoon, and dive into this comforting bowl of happiness!
Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this fabulous *Pasta e Fagioli*! I love knowing what I’m serving up, so here’s a typical breakdown for one bowl of this hearty soup. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Sugar: 4g
This soup is not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch! With beans for protein and fiber, plus all those veggies, it’s a great way to fill up without feeling guilty. So dig in and enjoy the goodness of this Italian classic!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this *Pasta e Fagioli*! It’s not just delicious; it’s also super practical for any home cook. Here are some of the standout reasons why this comforting soup is sure to win your heart:
- Quick to Make: With just about 40 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Easy Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients on hand already! It’s a great way to use up pantry staples and fresh veggies.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, onion, tomatoes, and spices creates a rich and savory flavor that’s utterly irresistible. Every spoonful is a burst of Italian goodness!
- Healthy Comfort: Packed with beans and veggies, it’s a nutritious choice that fills you up without weighing you down. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly!
- Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep or leftovers!
- Customizable: You can easily add more veggies or swap beans based on what you have. It’s a versatile recipe that can adapt to your tastes!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cozy dish. It’s a great way to introduce more plant-based meals into your family’s diet.
Seriously, once you try this *Pasta e Fagioli*, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved recipe. It’s comfort food at its finest, bringing joy and warmth to your table in no time!
Tips for Success
Alright, my friend, if you want to take your *Pasta e Fagioli* to the next level, I’ve got some pro tips for you! These little nuggets of wisdom are what I’ve picked up along the way, and I can’t wait to share them. Trust me, they’ll make a delicious dish even better!
- Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the onion and garlic until they’re nice and soft is essential. It builds the foundation of flavor for your soup. Just a few extra minutes can make a world of difference!
- Choose Quality Broth: Since the broth is a major component, opt for a good-quality vegetable broth. If you have homemade broth, even better! It adds depth and richness that store-bought just can’t match.
- Cook Pasta Separately (Optional): If you plan to have leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to each bowl when serving. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much broth and getting mushy over time.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to play around with the Italian seasoning. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick, or try some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness!
- Let It Rest: If you can, let the soup sit for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those fabulous flavors to meld together even more. It’s worth the wait, I promise!
- Top It Off: Serving it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of good olive oil can elevate your soup to a whole new level. It adds a touch of richness that’s absolutely divine!
- Make It Your Own: Don’t hesitate to add in your favorite veggies—zucchini, spinach, or carrots are all fantastic options. This not only boosts nutrition but also makes it uniquely yours!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the best version of *Pasta e Fagioli* inspired by Olive Garden! Get ready for a heartwarming, flavorful experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Variations
One of the things I absolutely love about *Pasta e Fagioli* is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to make it your own or to use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider that’ll keep this dish exciting every time you make it:
- Different Beans: While cannellini beans are a classic choice, feel free to mix it up with other beans like kidney beans, black beans, or even chickpeas. Each type brings its own unique flavor and texture!
- Add More Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in chopped spinach, kale, or zucchini just before adding the pasta. They’ll cook quickly and add a lovely color to your soup.
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of some heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. It’ll give your *Pasta e Fagioli* a delightful kick that’ll warm you right up!
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs can elevate your soup to a whole new level! Try adding chopped fresh basil, parsley, or even thyme for a burst of freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
- Meat Lover’s Version: If you’re craving a heartier soup, consider adding some cooked Italian sausage or diced pancetta. Just sauté it along with the onion and garlic for a rich, meaty flavor.
- Different Pasta Shapes: While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape you like, such as elbow macaroni, small shells, or even orzo. It’s all about finding what you love!
- Creamy Twist: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese just before serving. It adds a luxurious richness that’s simply divine!
With these variations, you’ll never get bored of this classic dish. Get creative and mix and match to find the perfect combination that suits your palate. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep your delicious *Pasta e Fagioli* fresh and ready to enjoy later! I know we all love leftovers, and this soup is just as good the next day—if not better! Here’s how to store and reheat it like a pro:
Storing Leftovers
First, let your soup cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cool, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help keep all those wonderful flavors locked in! You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you think you won’t finish it within that time, consider freezing it for longer storage.
Freezing Instructions
If you choose to freeze it, I recommend portioning the soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. This way, you can easily thaw just what you need later on. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date so you know when it was made!
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your *Pasta e Fagioli* again, the best way to reheat it is on the stovetop. Pour the desired amount into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through—about 5-10 minutes. If the soup thickens up too much, just add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up a bit.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat it in the microwave! Just pour it into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot. Easy-peasy!
Whichever method you choose, make sure to taste it before serving. You might want to add a little more salt or pepper to bring those flavors back to life. Enjoy your cozy bowl of *Pasta e Fagioli*, and savor those leftovers just as much as the first serving!
Imprimer
Pasta e Fagioli Olive Garden: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love
- Temps Total: 40 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty Italian soup made with pasta and beans, inspired by Olive Garden’s recipe.
Ingrédients
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add diced tomatoes and beans, stir well.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add pasta and Italian seasoning, cook until pasta is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to add more vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth.
- This soup tastes better the next day after the flavors meld.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Soup
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 bowl
- Calories: 300
- Sucre: 4g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 6g
- Graisses Saturées: 1g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 5g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 54g
- La fibre: 10g
- La protéine: 12g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 0mg
Mots-clés: pasta e fagioli, Olive Garden, Italian soup, pasta, beans
