INTRODUCTION
Are you ready to indulge in a delightful Italian comfort dish that warms your heart and fills your soul? Look no further than the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli recipe
This traditional Italian soup is a true celebration of flavors, combining the richness of diced tomatoes, the smokiness of bacon, the creaminess of cannellini beans, and the satisfying chew of ditalini pasta.
Created with love by the talented Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, this recipe promises a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving for more.
EQUIPMENT
- Large Pot: You’ll need a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to prepare the soup. This will allow ample space for simmering and ensure even cooking.
- Cutting Board and Knife: A good-quality cutting board and a sharp knife are essential for chopping the vegetables and garlic.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the ingredients while sautéing and simmering the soup.
- Can Opener: Since the recipe calls for canned diced tomatoes, a reliable can opener will be needed to open the can easily.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are crucial in cooking, so make sure to have measuring cups and spoons on hand.
- Soup Ladle: A soup ladle will help you serve the Pasta Fagioli easily without making a mess.
- Cooking Pot for Beans: If you’re using dried cannellini beans, you’ll need a separate pot to cook them in white wine until tender.
- Serving Bowls: Have some beautiful soup bowls or deep plates ready to present the delicious Pasta Fagioli in style.
With these basic kitchen tools, you’ll be well-equipped to whip up the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli with ease and finesse. Enjoy the hearty and comforting flavors!
BAREFOOT CONTESSA PASTA FAGIOLI RECIPE: INGREDIENTS
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ounce bacon, sliced ¼-inch thick
- ¼ cup olive oil
- â…” cup dried cannellini beans, cooked in white wine and drained
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- ¼ cup dried ditalini pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Here is the approximate nutritional profile of the Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe for 1 serving:
Calories: Approximate 200-250 calories
Protein: Approximate 10-15 grams of protein
Fat: Approximate 5-10 grams of fat
Fiber: Approximate 5-10 grams of fiber
Sodium: Approximate 300-500 milligrams of sodium
Sugar: Approximate 5-10 grams of sugar
Carbohydrate: Approximate 25-35 grams of carbohydrates
Cholesterol: Approximate 10-15 milligrams of cholesterol
Saturated Fat: Approximate 1-2 grams of saturated fat
Unsaturated Fat: Approximate 2-4 grams of unsaturated fat
Trans Fat: 0 grams of trans fat
Please note that these are just approximate values and the actual nutritional content may vary depending on the ingredients you use.
BAREFOOT CONTESSA PASTA FAGIOLI RECIPE: INSTRUCTIONS
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is glistening, add the bacon slices and cook them until they turn irresistibly crisp and golden brown. The aroma alone will make your mouth water!
- Now, add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and minced garlic to the pot. Let them cook and infuse the kitchen with their delightful fragrance. Stir them occasionally until they soften, usually around 5 minutes.
- Next, it’s time to introduce the stars of this dish – the diced tomatoes and the cooked cannellini beans. Pour them into the pot and let their flavors harmonize with the veggies and bacon. The magic is starting to happen!
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and then add the dried ditalini pasta. The broth will bring a depth of taste to the dish, while the ditalini pasta adds a playful twist, bringing a delightful texture to every spoonful.
- Bring the pot to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the soup to cook and meld its flavors for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly tender. The comforting scent will draw everyone to the kitchen, eager for their first taste.
- Don’t forget to season the Pasta Fagioli with salt and pepper to your liking. Every palate is different, so be sure to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.
- For the finishing touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the soup for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. It’s entirely optional, but the vibrant green adds a beautiful contrast to the earthy tones of the soup.
TIPS
- Bacon Bliss: Use high-quality bacon with a rich smoky flavor to elevate the taste of the soup. Crisp it up perfectly to release its full potential.
- Sautéing Perfection: Take your time while sautéing the onion, celery, carrot, and garlic. This step builds the foundation of flavors for the entire dish.
- Cannellini Beans: If you prefer a creamier texture, mash some of the cooked cannellini beans before adding them to the soup. This will thicken the broth and create a velvety consistency.
- Pasta Al Dente: To ensure your ditalini pasta doesn’t get mushy, cook it until it’s al dente – tender yet firm to the bite. Check the cooking time on the package and adjust accordingly.
- Seasoning Savvy: Taste the soup as it simmers and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Don’t be afraid to add a pinch more to bring out the flavors.
- Garnish with Love: Freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of freshness, but you can also experiment with grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a personal touch.
- Make Ahead and Freeze: This soup is perfect for meal prepping! Make a larger batch and freeze individual portions for a quick and comforting meal on busy days.
- Storing with Care: Store any leftover Pasta Fagioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Serve with Love: Share the joy of this hearty Italian dish with family and friends. The warmth and comfort it brings make it an excellent choice for gatherings and potlucks.
- Experiment and Personalize: Don’t hesitate to add your personal twist to the recipe. You can try different types of beans, swap the bacon for pancetta, or add some fresh vegetables for added nutrition.
BAREFOOT CONTESSA PASTA FAGIOLI RECIPE
Equipment
- Large pot You'll need a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to prepare the soup. This will allow ample space for simmering and ensure even cooking.
- Cutting Board and Knife A good-quality cutting board and a sharp knife are essential for chopping the vegetables and garlic.
- Wooden spoon or spatula Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the ingredients while sautéing and simmering the soup.
- Can Opener: Since the recipe calls for canned diced tomatoes, a reliable can opener will be needed to open the can easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons Precise measurements are crucial in cooking, so make sure to have measuring cups and spoons on hand.
- Soup Ladle: A soup ladle will help you serve the Pasta Fagioli easily without making a mess.
- Cooking Pot for Beans: If you're using dried cannellini beans, you'll need a separate pot to cook them in white wine until tender.
- Serving Bowls: Have some beautiful soup bowls or deep plates ready to present the delicious Pasta Fagioli in style.
Ingredients
- 1 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes, undrained
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 stalk celery chopped
- 1 carrot chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ounce bacon sliced ¼-inch thick
- ¼ cup olive oil
- â…” cup dried cannellini beans cooked in white wine and drained
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- ¼ cup dried ditalini pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is glistening, add the bacon slices and cook them until they turn irresistibly crisp and golden brown. The aroma alone will make your mouth water!
- Now, add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and minced garlic to the pot. Let them cook and infuse the kitchen with their delightful fragrance. Stir them occasionally until they soften, usually around 5 minutes.
- Next, it’s time to introduce the stars of this dish – the diced tomatoes and the cooked cannellini beans. Pour them into the pot and let their flavors harmonize with the veggies and bacon. The magic is starting to happen!
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and then add the dried ditalini pasta. The broth will bring a depth of taste to the dish, while the ditalini pasta adds a playful twist, bringing a delightful texture to every spoonful.
- Bring the pot to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the soup to cook and meld its flavors for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly tender. The comforting scent will draw everyone to the kitchen, eager for their first taste.
- Don’t forget to season the Pasta Fagioli with salt and pepper to your liking. Every palate is different, so be sure to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.
- For the finishing touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the soup for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. It’s entirely optional, but the vibrant green adds a beautiful contrast to the earthy tones of the soup.
DOWNLOAD BAREFOOT CONTESSA PASTA FAGIOLI RECIPE
CONCLUSION
The Barefoot Contessa Pasta Fagioli recipe is a testament to the simplicity and beauty of Italian cuisine. With its heartwarming combination of flavors, it’s no wonder why this soup has become a beloved classic.
So take a culinary journey with Ina Garten’s inspiration and create a pot of this comforting goodness for yourself and your loved ones.
With every spoonful, you’ll feel the love and passion that went into creating this delightful Italian masterpiece. Buon appetite!
FAQS
What are the different types of pasta fagioli?
Pasta fagioli comes in various delightful variations. The classic version features cannellini beans, pasta, tomatoes, and veggies. Other popular types include pasta fagioli with sausage, adding richness and spice, and pasta fagioli with bacon, introducing a smoky flavor. Lentils can replace beans for an alternative, and white beans offer a unique twist.
Can I make pasta fagioli vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian or vegan version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the Parmesan cheese. Get creative by adding veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the soup’s flavors.
How do I store pasta fagioli?
To store pasta fagioli, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What are the health benefits of pasta fagioli?
Pasta fagioli is a healthy and satisfying soup. The beans provide protein and fiber, promoting fullness and satiety. Tomatoes contribute vitamins A and C, known for their antioxidant properties, making this hearty dish a wholesome choice for your taste buds and well-being.
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