Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting Italian soup that warms the soul with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This dish features tender beans, pasta, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth. It’s a perfect blend of taste and texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or cozy nights in. The delightful aroma that wafts through your kitchen as it cooks is just the cherry on top!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Pasta e Fagioli recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The combination of protein-rich beans and wholesome veggies ensures it fits well into a healthy diet, providing a satisfying dish without the guilt. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences, and the flavors only get better with time, making it great for leftovers. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together, and your taste buds will thank you for the savory, hearty meal!
Tips and Tricks
- Use Quality Stock: Opt for low-sodium vegetable or chicken stock for a more flavorful broth without the excess salt. This allows you to control the seasoning better.
- Pre-cook Pasta: If you want to save time, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh basil or parsley at the end of cooking for a burst of flavor and color.
- Experiment with Beans: While cannellini beans are traditional, feel free to mix it up with kidney or pinto beans for different textures.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the base of the soup (vegetables and broth) a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight! Cook the pasta separately right before serving. Leftovers can last 3-4 days in the fridge; just store the pasta separately to prevent it from soaking up too much broth.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Version: Use vegetable broth and skip the meat altogether, replacing it with more beans or lentils.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in some heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for a richer texture.
How to Serve
Serve your Pasta e Fagioli hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a warm, crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For presentation, consider serving in rustic bowls with a side of toasted garlic bread for an inviting Italian dining experience.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your Pasta e Fagioli with a glass of Chianti or a light Italian white wine, like Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing sparkling water with lemon is perfect. A simple green salad or a slice of tiramisu can round out the meal beautifully.
How to Store
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure to do so without the pasta; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for chopping your vegetables. A ladle for serving is also handy! If you prefer, a slow cooker can be used for a hands-off approach.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish vegan, use vegetable broth and omit any meat products. For a gluten-free version, substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta or quinoa. Adjust the beans according to your dietary needs, ensuring that they fit your restrictions.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider using fresh vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to replace canned options for a vibrant, seasonal dish. In winter, stick with hearty root vegetables and canned tomatoes for convenience.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use canned beans? Absolutely! Canned beans save time; just drain and rinse them before adding.
- How long does it take to cook? The total cooking time is about 30-40 minutes, depending on your prep speed.
- Can I add meat? Yes! Ground beef or Italian sausage can add a delicious depth of flavor.
How To Make Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting Italian soup that warms the soul with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Add the pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 193Total Fat 3gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 2gCholesterol 2mgSodium 418mgCarbohydrates 35gFiber 8gSugar 9gProtein 8g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli at home is a wonderful way to enjoy the comforting essence of Italian cuisine. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious bowl of this classic soup that brings warmth and happiness to your table!
