February 11, 2024
Emma from The Natural Food Store
From Italy with Love: Pasta e Fagioli
A Bowlful of Comfort!
Pasta e Fagioli: The Heartwarming Italian Classic
Rated 4.5 stars by 2 users
Category
Dinner
Cuisine
Italian
Servings
4-6
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
45-60 minutes
Wow, does this dish have the Italian charm nailed. If you want to impress with a hearty Italian classic, try Pasta e Fagioli! It's a comforting and flavorful dish that captures the essence of rustic Italian cuisine. The best part: it's surprisingly easy to make, and you don't need any special techniques or equipment.
Emma from The Natural Food Store
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons Olive Oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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410 g Tuscanini Diced Tomatoes
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425 g Tuscanini Cannellini Beans
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425 g Tuscanini Red Kidney Beans
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4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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1 teaspoon Pereg Oregano
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1/2 teaspoon thyme
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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1/2 teaspoon Pereg Paprika (adjust to taste)
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Tuscanini Salt to taste
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Pereg Black Pepper to taste
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2 cups Gluten Free Gefen Elbow Noodles
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Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add the cannellini beans and kidney beans to the pot, and stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the oregano, thyme, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes.
In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Add the cooked pasta and beans to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the pasta and beans to absorb some of the liquid and flavors.
Recipe Note
Imagine this: rolling hills, cozy villages, and hardworking Italian villagers crafting a meal from the most basic ingredients. Pasta e Fagioli, born out of necessity, showcases their cleverness. It's a gem of "Cucina Povera," which means "peasant cooking."
When they had limited resources, they stuck to the essentials: pasta and beans. The result? A hearty dish that kept them going.
This traditional recipe reflects Italy's long-standing customs and highlights the resilience of its people.
Beyond Italy, Pasta e Fagioli has become famous worldwide for its rich flavors and versatility. It's a favorite on Italian restaurant menus everywhere and loved by those who enjoy comforting food.
Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, and there are many reasons why it's cherished globally. Here's why you should try a bowl:
Simple and Satisfying: It celebrates the beauty of simplicity. Pasta and beans blend perfectly to create a filling and delicious meal.
Regional Variety: Just like Italy's diverse regions, Pasta e Fagioli comes in many variations. Northern versions might use borlotti beans and a tomato broth, while southern ones might add cannellini beans with a hint of spice. It's like a culinary journey through Italy in your own kitchen.
Cultural Importance: This dish goes beyond taste; it's a symbol of thriftiness, highlighting the importance of quality ingredients and homemade, hearty dishes.
In Conclusion: A Bowl of Happiness:
Pasta e Fagioli is more than just food; it's a journey through Italy, a connection to history, and a heartwarming delight. It's a dish that speaks to the soul, and it's the embodiment of why Italian cuisine is so beloved worldwide. So why wait? Grab your apron, embark on a culinary adventure, and savor a bowl of Pasta e Fagioli—a piece of Italian culture that will warm your heart and delight your palate. Buon appetito!
Filed in:
Budget friendly meal,
Comforting Dish,
Cucina Povera,
Easy Italian soup,
Italian comfort food,
lunch,
One-pot pasta meal,
Pasta and beans soup,
Simple pasta dish,
Traditional Italian Dish
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