**Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup: A Hearty Comfort Food Delight**
Pasta Fagioli, often affectionately referred to as “Pasta e Fagioli” in its traditional Italian pronunciation, is a beloved Italian-American dish that embodies the perfect combination of rustic simplicity and comforting heartiness.
This Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup recipe brings the essence of this classic dish to your home kitchen, allowing you to recreate the cozy, fulfilling flavors found in many Italian eateries without stepping out your door.
### A Flavorful Introduction
At first glance, a steaming bowl of Pasta Fagioli Soup looks deceptively simple, but a deeper exploration reveals layers of flavor and nutritional goodness.
This soup captures the essence of Italian cooking, where peasant-style meals are crafted from humble ingredients, often resulting in dishes that are rich, satisfying, and deeply aromatic.
### The Base: Building Blocks of Flavor
Every great soup starts with a robust base, and this Pasta Fagioli begins with a soffritto—a mixture of finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery sautéed in olive oil.
The sweetness of the caramelized onions melds beautifully with the earthy notes of celery and the subtle sweetness of carrots, creating an aromatic foundation that forms the heart of the soup. A splash of garlic adds an additional layer of complexity, delivering that signature Italian flavor.
### Beans: The Soul of the Dish
The term “fagioli” translates to “beans” in Italian, which are a crucial component of this dish. In Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup, cannellini or borlotti beans are often used for their creamy texture and nutty flavor. Not only do these legumes provide a hearty protein source, but they also enrich the soup with fiber, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
As they simmer in the broth, the beans break down slightly, contributing to the soup’s thick and hearty consistency.
### Pasta: The Heart of the Dish
No Pasta Fagioli is complete without its namesake—pasta! Small pasta shapes, such as ditalini or elbow macaroni, are ideal for this soup, as they cook quickly and absorb the delightful flavors of the broth.
The pasta adds a comforting starchiness to the mix, elevating the dish from mere soup to a filling, one-pot meal that satisfies both the body and soul.
### The Broth: Infusing Depth and Character
The broth is a key element that ties all these ingredients together. Typically made from a combination of vegetable or chicken broth, tomatoes, and herbs, it can be adjusted to suit personal preferences. Diced tomatoes, whether canned or fresh, lend acidity and a hint of sweetness, balancing the earthiness of the beans and the richness of the olive oil.
Herbs like bay leaves, oregano, and thyme contribute fragrant notes that brighten the dish, while a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano just before serving can add a finishing touch of acidity and umami.
### Customization: Personal Touches
One of the beautiful aspects of making Copycat Pasta Fagioli Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For a vegetarian or vegan version, use vegetable broth and skip the cheese. If you desire a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the soffritto. For additional greens, you might stir in some chopped spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for a burst of color and nutrition.
### Serving Suggestions: The Perfect Presentation
Traditionally served alongside crusty bread or with a sprinkle of grated cheese, this hearty soup transforms any meal into an occasion. A drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil right before serving can enhance the flavor, making each spoonful rich and savory. Adding a touch of fresh parsley or basil as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but provides a fresh, herbal note that complements the dish beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 can of cannellini beans, with the liquid
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 8 ounces of tomato sauce
- 14 ½ ounces chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup uncooked spinach pasta
Instructions
FIRST STEP:
In a large saucepan or dutch oven, heat the olive oil and add in the celery and onions
Cook until onions are translucent
SECOND STEP:
Add in the seasonings and cook for 5 minutes
Add the tomato sauce, the chicken broth and tomatoes and simmer for 15 minutes
THIRD STEP:
Add pasta and cook for 15 minutes or until pasta is al dente
Add the can of beans with juice, stir to combine and heat through
FOURTH STEP:
Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese before serving
Can be served with bread sticks or a crusty slice of bread.
FIFTH STEP:
Pasta can also be cooked separately and placed in the bowl prior to the soup, this will prevent soggy mushy pasta in the leftovers.
Serve with a sandwich, roasted vegetables or any type of salad