Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Warm up with my Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup! This delicious soup captures the essence of Italian comfort food. It’s perfect for cozy nights in, family gatherings, or when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, this recipe is not only easy to make but also suitable for various occasions. You’ll love how it warms you from the inside out!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple prep and cook times, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in just over an hour.
• Flavorful: The combination of herbs, vegetables, and beans creates a rich taste that satisfies your cravings.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter or main dish; it’s perfect for any season or gathering.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber from the beans and vegetables, this soup is both filling and healthy.
• Comforting: It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to chilly days.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering soups; it allows ample space for all ingredients without spilling.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring you maintain clean counters.
• Knife: A sharp knife speeds up prep time by easily slicing through ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pots; it helps mix ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 celery stalks, diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)

For Flavoring

• 6 cups chicken broth (1.4 liters)
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained (425g)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (411g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)

For the Pasta

• 1/2 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta shape) (about 50g)

To Finish

• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

How to Make Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the ditalini pasta. Cook until pasta is tender—this will take about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley before serving. Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy hot!

How to Serve Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

This delightful soup is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with a warm, crusty baguette or ciabatta for dipping. The bread complements the flavors perfectly and adds a satisfying texture.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish.

With Grated Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side. Guests can sprinkle it over their soup for an extra layer of flavor.

As a Starter

• Serve small portions of the soup as an appetizer before a main course. This is a great way to kick off any Italian meal.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks appealing but also makes for a delicious treat when you finish the soup.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette pairs well with this hearty soup, balancing the meal with freshness.

How to Perfect Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

To ensure your Pasta Fagioli Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor significantly. Opt for fresh herbs whenever possible for the best results.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your preference for a personalized flavor profile.

• Cook Pasta Separately: For more control over pasta texture, cook it separately and stir it in just before serving. This prevents overcooking in the soup.

• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day. Prepare it ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge overnight to allow flavors to meld.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

Enhance your meal with these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully with Pasta Fagioli Soup.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for dipping into your soup.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

3. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses offers variety and complements the Italian theme beautifully.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and flavor while keeping things healthy.

5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan creates a classic pairing.

6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables make for a filling side that echoes Italian flavors.

7. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provides a fresh bite that balances the richness of the soup.

8. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy delights add a fun texture contrast while being light enough not to overshadow your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using stale ingredients: Ensure all your vegetables and herbs are fresh. Old ingredients can alter the flavor of your soup significantly.
• Not seasoning properly: Always taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process. Lack of salt or herbs can make the soup bland.
• Overcooking pasta: Add ditalini pasta toward the end of cooking. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the soup’s texture.
• Skipping the simmering step: Allowing the soup to simmer helps flavors meld together. Skipping this step can leave your soup tasting flat.
• Ignoring leftovers: Storing leftovers improperly can lead to spoilage. Make sure to follow storage guidelines to keep your soup fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating for about 25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup:

What is Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is a comforting Italian dish made with beans, vegetables, and small pasta, delivering rich flavors and warmth.

How long does it take to make this soup?

The total time is about 1 hour and 5 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I customize Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables or substitute different types of beans based on your preference.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Mama Mia& Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

What can I serve with this soup?

Consider pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With its warm flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for chilly days. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful bowl of comfort!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6

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Description

Warm up with Mama Mia’s Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup, a delightful blend of hearty beans, vibrant vegetables, and comforting pasta. This Italian-inspired soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings. With wholesome ingredients and a robust taste, it’s the ideal dish for anyone looking to enjoy a cozy meal. Serve it as a starter or main course, and let it warm you from the inside out!

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup ditalini pasta
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add rinsed cannellini beans, undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Stir in ditalini pasta and cook until tender (10-12 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste; stir in fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 0mg