Easy Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe

Warm up with this easy Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup rich in beans, veggies, smoked turkey bacon, and herbs for a comforting plant-based meal that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and delivers a satisfying bowl every time. This traditional Italian dish combines hearty beans, tender pasta, and fresh vegetables in a savory broth, making it perfect for cozy dinners or impressing friends with simple, authentic flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Nourishing: Packed with protein-rich beans and smoky turkey bacon, this soup keeps you energized and satisfied.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses wholesome pantry staples and fresh vegetables that are easy to find, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comfort in Every Spoonful: A warm, flavorful broth enhanced by aromatic herbs creates a soul-soothing experience.
• Plant-Based Friendly Twist: Incorporates plant-based elements without sacrificing the classic taste you love.
• Highly Customizable: Easily adjusted to suit different dietary needs or personal taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients for your Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Each one adds depth to the texture, color, and rich flavor that defines this beloved Italian classic.

• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a rich, smoky flavor and a satisfying meaty texture that complements the beans perfectly.
• Cannellini beans: Creamy white beans that provide protein and a smooth consistency to the broth.
• Diced tomatoes (natural): Brings a bright, tangy note and vibrant color to the soup base.
• Celery and carrots: Classic soffritto vegetables that build a sweet and savory foundation.
• Minced garlic: Essential for adding fragrant depth and warmth.
• Small pasta shapes: Tender pasta that holds just the right amount of broth, making each bite delightful.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Offers umami complexity without overpowering the soup.
• Fresh rosemary and thyme: Bright and aromatic herbs that accentuate the earthy flavors.
• Apple cider vinegar: Provides a subtle acidity that balances richness and enhances all the flavors.
• Olive oil (natural): Helps sauté and marry the ingredients with its fruity, smooth texture.
• Vegetable broth: The perfect base that ties together all the ingredients with heartiness.
• Sea salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning essentials to highlight each ingredient’s natural taste.

Variations for Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

This Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup recipe is super flexible, allowing you to tailor it for your cravings, pantry contents, or special diet. Feel free to experiment and make it truly yours.

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot paprika for a warm, tantalizing heat.
• Greens Boost: Toss in chopped kale or spinach near the end for extra nutrition and color.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties to keep the soup inclusive for everyone.
• Hearty and Meaty: Incorporate diced chicken or turkey instead of bacon for a lean protein option.
• Beans Variety: Mix kidney beans or chickpeas with cannellini beans for diverse textures and flavors.

How to Make Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the smoked turkey bacon and sauté until it becomes crispy and releases its smoky aroma. Then, stir in celery, carrots, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables soften and the kitchen smells inviting.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Beans

Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (natural), and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans for creamy, protein-packed goodness.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Add fresh rosemary and thyme, along with salt and black pepper. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld and deepen.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, cook the pasta until just tender, then drain and add it directly into the soup. Stir well and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the pasta soak up the flavorful broth.

Step 5: Finish with Apple Cider Vinegar

Remove the soup from the heat and stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bright, balanced finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot.

Pro Tips for Making Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme elevate the flavor much more than dried ones.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Add the pasta towards the end to avoid it becoming mushy and overdone.
• Opt for low-sodium broth: This allows better control over the saltiness of your soup.
• Give it time: Letting the soup simmer longer develops richer, deeper flavors.
• Serve hot: This soup tastes best when enjoyed steaming fresh, perfect for crisp evenings.

How to Serve Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Garnishes

Enhance your bowl with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (natural), a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, or a dash of cracked black pepper for an enticing presentation that also boosts flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your soup with warm, crusty bread or a simple mixed greens salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the hearty flavors and keep the meal light and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls with a side of grilled vegetables or roasted garlic plant-based (plant-based) breadsticks for a festive touch that impresses every guest at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, retaining its rich flavor and texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Remember to undercook the pasta slightly before freezing to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to soak dried beans overnight and cook them fully before adding to the soup to ensure optimal texture and digestibility.

What type of pasta works best in this soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are ideal because they blend well with the beans and broth.

Can this soup be made vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the smoked turkey bacon or replace it with smoked tempeh or plant-based bacon alternatives for the same smoky effect.

Is it possible to make this soup spicy?

Definitely, add red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking to add a subtle heat that complements the smokiness.

How thick should the soup be?

Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup should be thick and hearty but still brothy enough to enjoy with a spoon; adjust the broth quantity to your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Pasta e Fagioli Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on chilly days and a fantastic way to celebrate simple, wholesome ingredients packed with flavor. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, this recipe invites warmth and satisfaction in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own staple!

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