Discover the comforting flavors of Pasta e Fagioli, a classic Italian stew combining tender pasta with savory beans in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for a satisfying meal any time of the year, this easy-to-make recipe features fresh ingredients and simple steps to create a dish that's both hearty and delicious. Ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in. Try it today and enjoy a taste of traditional Italian cuisine!

Ingredients:

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 medium onion, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 medium carrots, diced

- 2 celery stalks, diced

- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Vegetables: Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Combine Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil.

Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add Pasta: Stir in the pasta, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.

Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional values

2 tablespoons olive oil

 - Calories: About 120 kcal

 - Fat: 14g (including monounsaturated fat)

Benefits:

 - Provides healthy fats that can support heart health.

 - Adds richness and flavor to the soup.

1 medium onion, chopped

 - Calories: About 45 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and contains antioxidants, vitamins C and B6.

2 cloves garlic, minced

 - Calories: About 5 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Known for its potential anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

2 medium carrots, diced

 - Calories: About 25 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Protein: 0.5g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

 - High in vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.

 - Provides fiber and antioxidants.

2 celery stalks, diced

 - Calories: About 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 0.6g

Benefits:

 - Provides vitamins A and K.

 - Adds crunch and flavor with minimal calories.

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

 - Calories: About 35 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

 - Protein: 1.5g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant that may support heart health.

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

 - Calories: About 225 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 40g

 - Protein: 15g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Fiber: 13g

Benefits:

 - High in protein and fiber, supporting satiety and digestive health.

 - Contains iron, potassium, and other essential nutrients.

1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

 - Calories: About 225 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 40g

 - Protein: 15g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Fiber: 13g

Benefits:

 - Provides protein and fiber.

 - Rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium.

4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

 - Calories: About 15-30 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1-2g

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and moisture to the soup.

 - Provides some minerals and can be a lower-calorie option.

1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)

 - Calories: About 210 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 42g

 - Protein: 7g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

 - Adds carbohydrates for energy.

 - Provides some protein and texture to the soup.

1 teaspoon dried basil

 - Calories: About 3 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0.8g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and contains antioxidants.

1 teaspoon dried oregano

 - Calories: About 2 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and has potential anti-inflammatory properties.

Salt and pepper to taste

- Nutritional Value (negligible)

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor.

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 - Calories: About 1 kcal

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and freshness.

 - Contains vitamins A, C, and K.

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

 - Calories: About 22 kcal

 - Fat: 1.5g

 - Protein: 2g

 - Carbohydrates: 0.2g

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and richness.

 - Provides calcium and protein.

This soup recipe combines a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta with flavorful herbs and spices. Olive oil adds healthy fats, while the beans provide protein and fiber. Tomatoes and herbs enhance the nutritional profile with vitamins and antioxidants. Optional Parmesan cheese adds a touch of richness. The recipe offers a balanced and hearty meal with diverse flavors and textures.