Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup is a heartwarming dish that captures the essence of Italian comfort food. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, boasting rich flavors and a delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen. In under 45 minutes, you can create a delicious soup that not only warms the soul but also brings loved ones together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup takes less than 45 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of tomatoes, broth, and beans creates a savory depth that’s satisfying and comforting.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a side dish, it’s excellent for any occasion—from casual meals to festive gatherings.
• Family Heirloom: Passed down through generations, this recipe holds special meaning and tradition, enriching your cooking experience.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from beans and turkey, this soup is nutritious without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Food processor
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Food processor: Helps in quickly dicing onions and garlic, saving time during prep.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

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Ingredients

This easy, authentic pasta fagioli soup recipe is a family heirloom and takes less than 45 minutes start to finish.

For the Soup Base

• 1 28oz can San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes
• 48oz chicken broth
• 2 14.5oz cans of cannellini beans

For Added Flavor

• 4oz imported turkey slices, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil

For the Pasta

• 1lb box of ditalini pasta (Barilla brand)

How to Make Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Cook the Ditalini Pasta

Bring up a pot of salted water and boil the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain when it is firm and still al dente—about 6-7 minutes. The macaroni will soften further once added to the fagioli soup.

Step 2: Prepare Onions and Garlic

Using a food processor or by hand, dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

Cover the bottom of a medium-large sized pot with olive oil—about 1/4 cup or so. Sauté the onions over medium heat until fragrant and translucent. Stir often to prevent scorching.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Add the garlic to the pot and cook for one minute while stirring to avoid burning.

Step 5: Cook Turkey Slices

Add the turkey slices and cook for about 5 minutes until they are heated through.

Step 6: Incorporate Beans

Add the cannellini beans with their juice to the pot. Bring this mixture to a low boil while stirring frequently.

Step 7: Process Tomatoes

Meanwhile, remove the tomatoes from their can by hand and place them into a food processor. Do not add any sauce or juice; you only want the tomatoes themselves. Pulse once or twice to break them up.

Step 8: Combine Broth

Add chicken broth to the pot and bring everything to a boil.

Step 9: Season

Season with ground pepper according to your taste preference.

Step 10: Add Tomatoes

Add the processed tomatoes into the pot, stir well, then reduce heat to very low simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 11: Serve

Serve with freshly grated pecorino romano or parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, and warm crusty bread for an authentic touch.

Enjoy your Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions that can elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup, adding a satisfying crunch.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the flavors of the soup and adds a savory touch.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
• Cheese Toppings: Serve with freshly grated pecorino romano or parmesan cheese for added creaminess and richness.

Accompany with Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the soup.
• Caesar Salad: For a heartier option, a classic Caesar salad pairs well with the richness of the pasta fagioli.

How to Perfect Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

Making Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup is straightforward, but these tips will help you achieve perfection each time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Select high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes and cannellini beans for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the ditalini pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances its flavors. A low simmer for at least 15 minutes is essential.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight!
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so slowly over low heat to maintain the texture of the ingredients.

Best Side Dishes for Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

To create a complete meal around Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup, consider these delicious side dishes that will complement its rich flavors.

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. Quick to prepare and adds freshness.
2. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic reduction. Light and flavorful.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized can enhance your meal’s nutrition and taste.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa are filling and pair nicely with soup.
5. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates an enticing starter before the main dish.
6. Focaccia Bread: This soft Italian bread seasoned with herbs is perfect for mopping up every last drop of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup is straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Bold Timing: Not cooking the ditalini pasta al dente can lead to mushy noodles. Always follow the package instructions and check for firmness.
• Bold Overcooking Ingredients: Cooking the onions or garlic for too long can cause burning. Saute them just until fragrant and translucent.
• Bold Skipping Seasoning: Forgetting to season the soup can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as you go, especially before serving.
• Bold Ignoring Texture: Not breaking up the canned tomatoes well enough can create an uneven texture. Use a food processor to ensure they are properly pulsed.
• Bold Improper Storage: Storing the soup in inappropriate containers may affect its freshness. Use airtight containers for refrigeration or freezing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup in airtight containers.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup, here are some commonly asked questions.

Can I substitute ingredients in Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Yes! You can customize this recipe by adding different beans or vegetables based on your preference.

How do I make Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup vegetarian?

Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the turkey slices for a delicious vegetarian version.

What kind of bread goes best with Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup?

Crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough pairs perfectly with this hearty soup, ideal for dipping.

How long does it take to prepare Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup?

The total time is about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick dinner option.

Final Thoughts

Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. Feel free to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll enjoy time and again.