Delicious and Budget-Friendly Poor Man's Pasta Fagioli Recipe

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Delicious and Budget-Friendly Poor Man's Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
65mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 04, 2023

This Poor Man's Pasta Fagioli recipe is a classic Italian dish made with inexpensive ingredients that results in a flavorful and filling meal. Combining pasta, beans, vegetables, and spices, this recipe is perfect for those on a tight budget without sacrificing taste. In just under 45 minutes, you can have a warm and comforting bowl of Pasta Fagioli that will satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup small pasta (such as elbow or ditalini)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Directions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir in the cannellini beans, red kidney beans, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Meanwhile, cook the small pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
  6. After the soup has simmered for 20 minutes, add the cooked pasta to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  7. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the flavors of the soup.
  8. Serve the Poor Man's Pasta Fagioli hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
  9. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Pasta Fagioli translates to 'pasta and beans' in Italian.
  • This dish originated in the peasant households of Italy, where ingredients like pasta and beans were readily available and affordable.
  • The recipe has variations across different regions of Italy, with some using different types of beans or adding meat.
  • Pasta Fagioli is a versatile dish and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course.