Very Tomato Pasta e Fagioli 🍅🍝

This hearty and comforting dish is a creative twist on the traditional Pasta e Fagioli. Bursting with rich tomato flavor and packed with protein, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering. The addition of fresh herbs and spices elevates the dish to a whole new level, making it a must-try for any tomato lover!

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)
• 1 can (15 oz) of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

For the Pasta

• 1 cup of ditalini pasta (or pasta of your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

🥄 Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add a pinch of salt to help the veggies release their moisture.

• Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the cannellini beans, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

• Once the soup is at a gentle boil, add the ditalini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.

🥣 The pasta will absorb some of the broth, so keep an eye on it. If it gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken further.

• Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is already plant-based, but you can add more veggies like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrients! 🍆
• Protein-Packed: Add cooked Italian sausage or browned ground beef for a heartier meal.
• Spicy Twist: Add a splash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes for an extra kick! 🌶️
• Creamy Add-In: Stir in a spoonful of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamier texture.

🍽️ Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal!

This Very Tomato Pasta e Fagioli is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a perfect go-to dish. Enjoy the comforting flavors that will warm you from the inside out!