17 Best Authentic Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe Get Ready To Indulge!

Published on: Mar 14, 2024

One of the most beloved dishes in Italian cuisine is pasta fagioli, a hearty and flavorful soup made with pasta and beans. While there are many variations of this dish, the best authentic Italian pasta fagioli recipe is a simple and rustic one that showcases the delicious flavors of the country. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a satisfying and comforting bowl of pasta fagioli that will transport you straight to Italy.

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Bringing Out the Best Flavors

Using High-Quality Ingredients

One of the key elements in creating the best authentic Italian pasta fagioli is using high-quality ingredients. The simplicity of this dish means that each ingredient plays a crucial role in the overall flavor. Start with fresh and ripe tomatoes, which are the base of the soup, along with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. For the beans, cannellini beans are the traditional choice, but you can also use borlotti beans for a slightly different flavor. In addition, good quality olive oil and freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese are essential for adding depth and richness to the soup.

Creating Flavorful Broth

The broth is the backbone of any pasta fagioli recipe and it's important to infuse it with as much flavor as possible. To do this, start by sautéing aromatic vegetables such as onion, celery, and carrots in a large pot. This will create a flavorful base for the broth. Next, add in the fresh tomatoes and herbs, along with some chicken or vegetable broth to further enhance the flavor. Let everything simmer together for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Adding the Pasta and Beans

Once the broth is done, it's time to add in the pasta and beans. The type of pasta used in pasta fagioli can vary, but small shapes like ditalini or small shells are the most common. Cook the pasta separately and then add it to the broth along with the beans. Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes until the pasta is fully cooked and the flavors have come together.

Serving and Enjoying

The best way to enjoy authentic Italian pasta fagioli is to serve it simply with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on top. This will add a touch of richness and depth to the soup. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up any remaining broth. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and authentic bowl of pasta fagioli that will impress any Italian food lover.