Imagine a steaming bowl of hearty Italian soup that transports you straight to the rustic kitchens of Tuscany with every single spoonful! This Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup is not just a meal, it's a warm embrace of traditional flavors that combines tender vegetables, creamy beans, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, aromatic broth. Whether you're craving a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or looking to impress your family with a restaurant-quality dish, this recipe is your secret weapon to culinary magic.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and become translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, cannellini beans, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and vegetables to become tender.
- Add the small pasta to the soup and continue cooking for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed, tasting and adding more Italian seasoning if desired.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the soup to thicken slightly and the flavors to further develop.
- Ladle into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Tips
- • Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture - crisp carrots, celery, and onions are the flavor foundation of this soup. • Don't rush the sautéing process; allowing vegetables to soften slowly develops deeper, richer flavors. • Choose a small pasta like ditalini, orzo, or small shells that will cook evenly and provide the perfect bite. • For a more intense flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or adding a parmesan rind while simmering. • If the soup becomes too thick, simply add a little extra broth to reach your desired consistency. • This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance! • For a vegetarian version, swap chicken broth with vegetable broth and the soup remains just as delicious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
