Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

This easy, authentic pasta fagioli soup recipe is a family heirloom that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine to your table. In less than 45 minutes, you can create a delicious and hearty soup that’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Featuring rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup is a delightful dish that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• Flavorful Comfort: With layers of taste from fresh ingredients, every spoonful is warm and inviting.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with crusty bread for a complete experience.
• Nutritious: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup delivers both flavor and health benefits.
• Family Tradition: This recipe carries the love of generations, making it special for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To make Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup effectively, having the right tools is essential for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Food processor
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly and allowing all flavors to meld together.
• Food processor: Saves time on chopping vegetables like onions and garlic, ensuring uniform pieces.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your soup.

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 the 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 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 Vegetables

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: Incorporate Turkey

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

Step 6: Add Beans

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

Step 7: Prepare Tomatoes

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 gently.

Step 8: Combine Broth

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

Step 9: Season

Season with ground pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 10: Add Tomatoes

Stir in the processed tomatoes. Reduce heat to very low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes so that all flavors meld beautifully.

Step 11: Serve

Serve hot with freshly grated pecorino romano or parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, and warm crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

Serving Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup can enhance the dining experience and make it even more delightful. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. Choose a rustic loaf or baguette to complement the flavors.

Top with Cheese

• Garnish each bowl with freshly grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top before serving to give your soup a burst of freshness.

Include a Side Salad

• A light side salad can balance the meal. Opt for a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to keep it refreshing.

Offer Red Pepper Flakes

• Provide crushed red pepper flakes on the table for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their soup.

Serve with a Side of Olives

• A small bowl of marinated olives can add an extra layer of flavor and make for a delightful appetizer alongside the soup.

How to Perfect Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

Achieving the perfect bowl of Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making skills.

• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality San Marzano tomatoes and fresh herbs make a significant difference in flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the ditalini pasta until it’s al dente ensures it retains its texture in the soup.
• Don’t Skip the Sautéing: Sautéing onions and garlic adds depth and flavor; be patient while they cook.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or add more beans for extra body.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for perfection.

Best Side Dishes for Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Warm, buttery garlic bread is an irresistible side that complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.

2. Caprese Salad
   This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic drizzle adds brightness to your meal.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a hearty side that pairs well with the richness of pasta fagioli.

4. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil offers a crunchy contrast to the soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, vegetables, or turkey make for a satisfying addition alongside your soup.

6. Antipasto Platter
   An antipasto platter with assorted cheeses, cured meats (like turkey), olives, and marinated veggies offers variety and flavor diversity.

7. Mixed Greens Salad
   A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly allows you to cleanse your palate between bites of hearty soup.

8. Focaccia Bread
   Soft and chewy focaccia bread drizzled with olive oil serves as a delicious accompaniment ideal for soaking up every drop of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the al dente step: Cooking the pasta too long before adding it to the soup can make it mushy. Always cook it al dente, as it will soften further in the soup.

• Not using quality tomatoes: Using low-quality canned tomatoes can affect the flavor. Opt for San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes for an authentic taste.

• Overcooking garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter if overcooked. Add it just before the turkey slices and stir continuously for even cooking.

• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. You may need to adjust the seasoning, especially with ground pepper, to enhance flavor.

• Rushing the simmering process: Allowing your soup to simmer properly develops a richer flavor. Don’t skip on this step; let it simmer for at least 15 minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

• To freeze, use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just leave some space in containers as it may expand.

Reheating Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup:

How should I customize Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup?

You can add vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition. Feel free to swap turkey with chicken or beef for different flavors.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute turkey with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What side dishes go well with Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup?

This hearty soup pairs nicely with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

How long does Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Nona’s Authentic Pasta Fagioli Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl of tradition that brings family together!