Pasta e Fagioli

Vegetarian Pasta Fagioli is a comforting Italian dish that combines pasta and beans in a savory broth. This recipe can be easily customized with various substitutions and variations. Below is a comprehensive guide to making this delicious dish, along with tips on how to modify it to suit your preferences.

Vegetarian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (28-ounce) can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
• 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or shells)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil and/or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 6–8 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the tomato paste. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to incorporate flavors.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, beans, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Cook Pasta: While the soup simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Finish the Soup: Stir in the cooked pasta just before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Customization Tips

Good Vegetarian Substitutes for Pancetta

In traditional Pasta Fagioli, pancetta adds a savory depth of flavor. For a vegetarian version:

• Coconut Bacon: Provides a smoky flavor.
• Parmesan Rind: Adds umami when simmered in the broth.
• Smoked Paprika: For a hint of smokiness without meat.

Different Types of Beans

You can use various beans in your Pasta Fagioli:

• Chickpeas: For a nutty flavor.
• Great Northern Beans: Tender texture that works well.
• Navy Beans: Small and creamy, perfect for soups.

Making It Creamier Without Dairy

To achieve a creamier texture without adding dairy:

• Blend Some Soup: Blend part of the soup until smooth and return it to the pot.
• Mash Beans: Mash some of the beans before adding them to thicken the broth.
• Use Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Vegetarian Pasta Fagioli with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish is not only hearty but also perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge for several days.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Vegetarian Pasta Fagioli!

Vegetarian Substitutes for Pancetta

In traditional Pasta Fagioli, pancetta adds a salty, savory flavor. For a vegetarian version, consider these substitutes:

• Coconut Bacon: This offers a smoky flavor that mimics the taste of pancetta well, making it a great vegan option.
• Parmesan Rind: Adding a parmesan rind to the soup infuses it with umami without using meat. Just remember to remove it before serving.
• Smoked Paprika: For a smoky flavor without meat, smoked paprika can be added to the vegetables during sautéing.

Types of Beans to Use

While cannellini beans are commonly used in Pasta Fagioli, you can experiment with different types of beans:

• Chickpeas: These provide a nutty flavor and are high in protein.
• Great Northern Beans: Another excellent choice that maintains the creamy texture of the dish.
• Navy Beans: These are small and tender, making them suitable for soups.

Feel free to mix and match beans based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Making Pasta Fagioli Creamier Without Dairy

To achieve a creamier texture in your Pasta Fagioli without adding dairy, consider these methods:

• Blend Some of the Soup: After simmering, take a portion of the soup (beans and broth) and blend it until smooth. Return it to the pot to create a thicker consistency.
• Add Mashed Beans: Mash some of the beans before adding them to the soup. This will help thicken the broth while keeping the bean flavor intact.
• Use Nutritional Yeast: This ingredient adds a cheesy flavor and creaminess without dairy. Stir it into the soup just before serving for an extra boost of flavor.