Simple Pasta and Beans Recipe
Pasta and beans, or “pasta e fagioli,” is a classic Italian comfort food. It’s hearty, simple to make, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe balances the creaminess of the beans with the al dente texture of pasta, all brought together with aromatic herbs and a savory broth. Below is a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious pot of pasta and beans that serves four.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
- Chop the Vegetables: Start by finely chopping the onion, garlic, celery, and carrot. These vegetables will form the base of the dish, adding depth and flavor to the broth.
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Olive oil is preferred for its rich, fruity flavor, but you can use any cooking oil you have on hand.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Season: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, allowing the herbs to release their flavors into the mixture.
Step 3: Create the Base
- Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir well to combine with the vegetables and herbs. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down slightly.
- Add the Beans: Add the drained and rinsed beans to the pot. Cannellini beans are traditional, but you can also use great northern beans or even chickpeas if you prefer.
Step 4: Simmer the Broth
- Add the Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you like a bit of heat, this is the time to add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- Add the Pasta: Stir in the pasta. Let it cook directly in the soup for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Check the Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick as the pasta cooks, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
- Add Parmesan: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a creamy richness to the soup.
- Garnish: Ladle the pasta and beans into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil on top for added flavor.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve Hot: Serve the pasta and beans hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a simple side salad. This dish is filling and satisfying on its own, but you can always pair it with a glass of white wine or a light Italian red.
Tips for the Best Pasta and Beans
- Cooking the Pasta Separately: If you plan to make this dish ahead of time or anticipate leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual servings. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft as it sits in the broth.
- Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe with other vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You can also use different types of beans, such as kidney beans or navy beans.
- Creamier Texture: For a creamier texture, mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot. This will thicken the broth and give it a richer consistency.
Conclusion
Pasta and beans is a versatile and comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients to create something truly delicious. Its hearty texture and rich flavor make it a perfect meal for any day of the week. Enjoy this classic Italian dish with family and friends for a warm, satisfying experience.