Pasta and Bean Soup
Introduction
Pasta and Bean Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that warms you up on cold days. It combines pasta with healthy beans and plenty of vegetables, creating a nutritious meal. This soup is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or a cozy lunch.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Pasta and Bean Soup is a great choice for many reasons. First, it is very simple to prepare, making it a perfect option for beginners in the kitchen. Second, it is packed with protein and fiber from the beans and vegetables, contributing to a healthy diet. Lastly, it is a budget-friendly recipe that can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
How to Make Pasta and Bean Soup
Making Pasta and Bean Soup is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps for a warm bowl of comfort.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium if preferred)
- 2 cups water
- 15 oz canned tomato sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup onion, minced
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced (approximately 6 cloves)
- 1 cup carrots, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (gluten-free if necessary, about 5 oz)
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in carrots and cook for a few minutes.
- Add vegetable broth, water, tomato sauce, bay leaf, and all seasonings.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add cannellini beans and ditalini pasta, cook until the pasta is tender, approximately 10 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and remove bay leaf before serving.
- Enjoy warm.
How to Serve Pasta and Bean Soup
Pasta and Bean Soup is best served hot. You can serve it in bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Pasta and Bean Soup
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Pasta and Bean Soup
- For extra flavor, you can add more vegetables like spinach or kale.
- Using homemade vegetable broth can enhance the taste of the soup.
- If you want a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
Variation
For a different taste, try adding different types of beans, such as kidney beans or black beans. You can also change the pasta to your favorite shape or use whole grain pasta for more fiber.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make Pasta and Bean Soup a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
2. Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it contains only plant-based ingredients.
3. Can I add meat to this soup?
Certainly! You can add cooked chicken or sausage for a protein boost. Just cooks it separately and add it to the soup before serving.
