Pasta e Fagioli

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 280
• Protein: 12g per serving
• Carbohydrates: 41g per serving
• Fat: 5g per serving
• Fiber: 10g per serving
• Sugar: 3g per serving
• Sodium: 650mg per serving

Pasta and Beans is a comforting dish that beautifully marries the hearty texture of pasta with the creamy richness of beans. This dish is not only budget-friendly but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch. The essence of Mediterranean cooking comes alive in this recipe, as the fresh ingredients and simple preparation let the natural flavors shine through.

Why Make This Pasta and Beans

If you’re searching for a meal that checks all the boxes—quick, nutritious, and delicious—Pasta and Beans is your answer. This dish brings warmth and satisfaction, and its simplicity means you can whip it up even on the busiest of days. Loaded with plant-based protein and fiber, it’s not just filling but also nourishing. Plus, it’s easily customizable. Whether you’re looking to add a bit of spice or a splash of extra greens, this dish can adapt to your taste.

How to Make Pasta and Beans

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and soft—it will take about 3-4 minutes. The aroma from the garlic will fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Mixing

Add in the canned diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and bring the mixture to a boil. This fragrant base will set the stage for the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Cooking

Once boiling, add the ditalini pasta and cannellini beans to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally; this helps ensure that the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.

Step 4: Finishing

Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Once everything’s nicely combined and heated through, serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley. The vibrant green of the parsley will add a refreshing touch to the meal!

How to Serve Pasta and Beans

This dish is delicious on its own, but you might consider pairing it with a crunchy side salad or some crusty bread for a more complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add an extra layer of richness if you’re not strict about keeping it vegetarian.

How to Store Pasta and Beans

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stove, adding a little water or broth to loosen the consistency if needed. This dish also freezes well; you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Expert Tips for Perfect Pasta and Beans

• If you want more protein and texture, consider adding some cooked sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
• For heat seekers, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile.
• Don’t skip the seasoning; salt and pepper are critical to bringing out the dish’s true flavor.

Delicious Variations

• Seasonal Veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of harissa or a diced jalapeño for a spicy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for varied flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use other types of pasta?
  Yes, feel free to substitute ditalini with any pasta shape you have, but adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta used.

• How do I make it vegan-friendly?
  The recipe is already vegan! Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like broths and toppings, abide by your dietary choices.

• What can I do if I want a thicker consistency?
  To thicken the dish, simply let it simmer a bit longer without the lid, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate.

• Can I make this in advance for meal prep?
  Absolutely! Prepare it, let it cool completely, then portion it into containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

• What type of beans can I use instead of cannellini?
  You can substitute with any white beans like navy or great northern beans for similar texture and taste.

Conclusion

Pasta and Beans is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with hearty nutrition. It’s perfect for those days when you need comfort food without the fuss. Whether you stick with the classic flavors or add your unique twist, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart. Gather your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll be glad you did!

Pasta and Beans

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A comforting dish that marries the hearty texture of pasta with creamy beans, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add in the canned diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil.
3. Once boiling, add the ditalini pasta and cannellini beans. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, serve hot garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze well for up to 2 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg