PASTA E FAGIOLI

Pasta e Fagioli: A Bowlful of Comfort

Dive into Italian cuisine with Pasta e Fagioli, a hearty soup that warms the soul. This classic dish seamlessly blends pasta and beans in a flavorful broth, creating comfort that transcends seasons. Let’s craft this timeless recipe together:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried small pasta (ditalini, elbows, or small shells)
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced pancetta or bacon
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté Pancetta and Vegetables

1. Cook diced pancetta or bacon in a large pot until crispy and fat is rendered.
2. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are softened and onions are translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

1. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add crushed tomatoes to the pot and combine with sautéed vegetables.

Step 3: Incorporate Beans and Broth

1. Add cannellini and red kidney beans, dried oregano, and basil.
2. Pour in vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring beans and vegetables are fully immersed.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook Pasta

1. Bring soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
2. Cook pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Just before serving, add cooked pasta to the soup. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle Pasta e Fagioli into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.

Cook Notes:

• Experiment with bean varieties like navy beans or great northern beans.
• Swap pancetta for bacon or turkey bacon for a smokier flavor.
• Use homemade broth or low-sodium store-bought broth based on preference.

Variations:

• Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Include fresh spinach or kale leaves for added nutrition.
• Stir in tomato paste along with crushed tomatoes for intensified tomato flavor.

Keto Versions:

• Replace pasta with cauliflower florets or shirataki noodles to reduce carb content.
• Increase pancetta or bacon for added fats.

Low Carb Versions:

• Choose low-carb beans like black soybeans or chickpeas in moderation.
• Reduce quantity of carrots to minimize carb intake.

Conclusion:
Pasta e Fagioli embodies the heartwarming simplicity of Italian cooking. From savory pancetta to satisfying beans and pasta, each spoonful tells a story of comfort and tradition. Embrace variations to tailor the recipe to taste buds or dietary preferences, ensuring this classic soup becomes a cherished staple. Gather ingredients, let aromas fill your kitchen, and savor the richness of Pasta e Fagioli – a bowlful of comfort that transcends time and place. Buon Appetito!

Source: plusdeclics.com