Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

A hearty bowl of Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to gatherings with friends. This rustic Italian soup, brimming with beans, pasta, and fresh vegetables, offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and satisfy your appetite. Its simplicity in preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights while still delivering on taste and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with beans and veggies, this soup provides essential nutrients while being hearty enough to satisfy.
• Versatile Option: Serve it as a main dish or a side; this soup adapts well to various meals and occasions.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to adjust the herbs or add more vegetables based on your preferences for a unique twist every time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without worry of overflow.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts, which enhances cooking time and presentation.

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Ingredients

To prepare this flavorful Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Aromatics and Base

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Tomatoes and Broth

• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Beans and Pasta

• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans
• 1 cup small pasta

Herbs and Seasonings

• 1 sprig rosemary (or ½ tsp dried)
• 2 sprigs thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper

Optional Garnishes

• Parmesan and parsley for serving (optional)

How to Make Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until they soften. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once softened, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes

Next, stir in the tomato paste along with the diced tomatoes. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Beans

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add both cans of beans along with the rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Reduce heat to low once boiling. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20–25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Add your small pasta into the pot during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir occasionally until cooked al dente according to package instructions.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper. Remove any herb sprigs used during cooking before serving hot with optional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top.

Enjoy your deliciously comforting Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli!

How to Serve Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Serving Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe is a delightful experience. This hearty soup can be paired with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make for a satisfying meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping in the soup.
• Garlic Bread – A buttery garlic bread adds a nice crunch and flavor contrast.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan – Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for added richness.
• Mozzarella – For a gooey touch, add small mozzarella balls to each bowl.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley – Chopped parsley not only adds freshness but also enhances presentation.
• Basil Leaves – A few fresh basil leaves can elevate the aroma and taste.

As a Main Dish

• Side Salad – A light side salad can complement the heartiness of the soup, providing balance.
• Roasted Vegetables – Tossed seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized pair excellently.

How to Perfect Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

To ensure your Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully – Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately – Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming too soft in the soup.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

Pairing sides with your Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil complements the Italian flavors.
3. Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides a crisp texture contrast.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice and veggies make for a colorful side dish.
5. Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers offer freshness in every bite.
6. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes – Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic and Parmesan create a hearty addition.
7. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly grilled zucchini slices bring an extra layer of flavor without overwhelming the soup.
8. Cheesy Polenta Cakes – Creamy polenta baked into cakes makes for a comforting side that pairs well with soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make small errors when preparing this delicious soup. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.

• Using too much pasta: Adding too much pasta can make the soup too thick. Measure out 1 cup to keep the right consistency.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing vegetables for too long can cause them to lose their texture. Cook until just softened for the best results.
• Neglecting to season properly: Under-seasoned soup can taste bland. Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Skipping the herbs: Herbs add depth of flavor. Don’t skip them; fresh herbs are always best but dried can work in a pinch.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: A good simmer allows flavors to meld. Aim for at least 20 minutes for the best taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

This recipe is a hearty Italian soup made with beans, pasta, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, perfect for any cozy dinner.

Can I customize my Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or beans based on your preference or what you have on hand.

How long does it take to make Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe?

The total time is approximately 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Is Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with nutrients from beans and vegetables while being low in calories.

Final Thoughts

The Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe offers a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that make it a comforting choice for any meal. It’s versatile enough for customization based on your tastes, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Give it a try, and enjoy the cozy warmth it brings!