Pasta Fasul: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Introduction
Pasta Fasul, also known as Pasta e Fagioli, is a classic Italian dish that translates to “pasta and beans” in English. This hearty and comforting soup is popular in many regions of Italy, particularly in the colder months. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines pasta, beans, vegetables, and spices to create a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch option, Pasta Fasul is a fantastic choice. In this blog post, we will share an authentic Pasta Fasul recipe that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To make Pasta Fasul, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Directions
Follow these steps to prepare a delicious Pasta Fasul:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot, along with the vegetable broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Meanwhile, cook the ditalini pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
After simmering the soup for 15 minutes, add the cannellini beans to the pot and stir gently. Let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat the beans.
Finally, add the cooked ditalini pasta to the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to ensure the flavors meld together.
Serve the Pasta Fasul hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs well with crusty bread on the side.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ditalini pasta is traditionally used in Pasta Fasul, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells. Feel free to experiment and use your favorite type of pasta.
2. Can I use different beans?
Yes, you can use different types of beans if you prefer. Cannellini beans are commonly used in Pasta Fasul, but you can substitute them with kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian by default as it uses vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. To make it vegan, simply omit the grated Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Pasta Fasul freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stovetop.
5. What can I serve with Pasta Fasul?
Pasta Fasul is a complete meal on its own but can be accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread. The bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful soup. Additionally, you can pair it with a glass of red wine to enhance the dining experience.
