Step 3: Add Liquids and Beans
Pour in the diced tomatoes, broth, and sugar. Stir well to combine. Add the bay leaf for extra fragrance, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cannellini and kidney beans. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15–20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the vegetables to become tender.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
In a separate small pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
Tip: Cooking the pasta separately prevents it from soaking up too much broth and becoming mushy. However, if you prefer a thicker, stew-like soup, you can cook the pasta directly in the soup during the final simmering stage.
Step 5: Combine and Adjust
Add the cooked pasta to the pot of soup and stir gently. Taste and adjust seasoning — you may want to add a pinch more salt or pepper depending on your preference.
Simmer everything together for another 5 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the rich tomato flavor.
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the warm Pasta Fagioli Soup into bowls. Top each serving with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, a handful of fresh parsley or basil, and a light drizzle of olive oil. For a hint of brightness, add a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast for the perfect comforting meal.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Fagioli
- Use fresh herbs when possible – Fresh basil and parsley can elevate the flavor significantly.
- For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans before adding them to the soup. This thickens the broth naturally.
- Add Italian sausage or pancetta if you’d like a meaty version — brown it at the beginning before adding vegetables.
- Store leftovers smartly: Keep pasta and soup in separate containers if storing overnight to avoid soggy pasta.
Final Thoughts
Pasta Fagioli Soup is more than just an Italian comfort food — it’s a celebration of simplicity and warmth. Each spoonful delivers a perfect blend of savory broth, tender beans, and comforting pasta. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup promises a delicious, soul-soothing experience every time.
Would you like me to include a vegetarian or gluten-free variation of this recipe as well?
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