Why Make This Recipe
Pasta and Bean Soup is a warm, hearty dish that brings comfort on chilly days. This recipe is simple to prepare and offers a balance of nutrition with beans, vegetables, and pasta. It is perfect for both busy families and anyone looking for a quick meal option.
The combination of flavors supports a full-bodied soup that can stand alone as a meal or be paired with a side. Not only is it satisfying, but it also stretches your grocery dollar, making it an economical choice for wholesome eating.
Equipment Needed for Pasta and Bean Soup
To make Pasta and Bean Soup, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. A large pot is essential for simmering all the ingredients together. A cutting board and sharp knife are necessary for chopping vegetables efficiently.
A wooden spoon will be useful for stirring the soup as it cooks. If you use dried beans, a bowl for soaking could come in handy. Finally, measuring cups and spoons will ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
What You Need to Make Pasta and Bean Soup
- 1/2 lb dried great northern beans
- 1/2 tbsp kosher salt
- water
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 2 medium carrots (diced)
- 2 long ribs of celery (diced)
- 6 garlic cloves
- 14.5 oz can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- 2 Parmesan cheese rinds that are about 2 inches long
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (crushed)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (more for spicier soup)
- salt (to taste)
- 1/2 lb uncooked ditalini pasta (cooked separately)
How to Cook Pasta and Bean Soup Step by Step
Note: Using dry beans and soaking them overnight increases cooking time to around 3 hours. If you forget to soak the beans, you can still enjoy this soup! Just cook it for an additional hour or so and add a bit more stock. Using canned beans can significantly shorten the cooking time to about one hour.
Soaking Beans: Begin by soaking your dried great northern beans overnight in a bowl filled with water. This step helps to soften the beans, making them easier to cook. Make sure that the beans are fully submerged in the water, as they will expand during soaking.
Soup Preparation: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the other veggies soften. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the soaked beans into the pot, followed by the crushed tomatoes and vegetable or chicken stock. Toss in the Parmesan rinds, bay leaves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 2.5 hours, or until the beans are tender.
Once the beans are cooked, taste the broth and add kosher salt as needed. Remember to remove the bay leaves and Parmesan rinds from the soup. Meanwhile, in a separate pot, cook the ditalini pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and set it aside.
When you’re ready to serve, combine the cooked pasta with the soup, mixing gently to combine. Allow the flavors to meld together for a few minutes before serving the soup hot.
How to Serve Pasta and Bean Soup
Pasta and Bean Soup is best enjoyed warm and steaming. Ladle generous portions into bowls and consider adding fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, as a final touch. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also enhance the flavor profile, elevating each bite.
Serve the soup with a robust slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping. The bread complements the soup beautifully and adds texture to the meal. You might also want to include a light green salad to balance the richness.
What to Serve with Pasta and Bean Soup
When serving Pasta and Bean Soup, consider pairing it with light dishes that won’t overshadow the soup’s flavors. A simple garden salad or a Caesar salad works well to add brightness and freshness.
You can also serve it alongside garlic bread or a cheesy focaccia. For those looking for a heartier meal, consider grilled cheese sandwiches or paninis. These options can make your meal feel more complete and satisfying.
How to Store Pasta and Bean Soup
If you have leftovers, storing Pasta and Bean Soup is easy. Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Store it in the refrigerator where it will keep well for about 3-4 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove.
Tips to Make Pasta and Bean Soup
To enhance the flavors in your Pasta and Bean Soup, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice before serving. This can brighten the tastes and add a lovely acidity that balances the richness of the beans and cheese.
Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables. Adding spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking can introduce more nutrients and a vibrant color. You can also adjust the spiciness with red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
If you’re short on time, utilizing canned beans is a great way to speed up the cooking process. Just ensure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup to reduce sodium levels.
Variation (If Any)
There are various ways to tweak this Pasta and Bean Soup recipe to make it your own. You can swap the great northern beans with other varieties like cannellini or black beans for a different flavor and texture.
For a more Mediterranean version, consider incorporating zucchini and bell peppers. Adding a dash of Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor even more.
For a smoky flavor, you could add diced ham or sausage, which will provide additional protein and richness to the soup. Just remember to adjust your seasonings based on the added ingredients.
Best Time to Make Pasta and Bean Soup
Pasta and Bean Soup is particularly comforting in fall and winter when you need something warm. It’s an ideal dish for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
However, since it uses simple ingredients that are typically available all year round, you can enjoy it any time. Weeknights are perfect for this recipe, especially when you want a wholesome meal without too much fuss.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pasta and Bean Soup, a common mistake is undercooking the beans. If you skip the soaking step, make sure to extend the cooking time to ensure that the beans are tender.
Another mistake is not tasting the soup before serving. Adding salt gradually throughout cooking can help to achieve a well-seasoned broth. Lastly, avoid overcooking the pasta; add it at the end to keep it al dente, which will hold up better in the soup.
Nutritional Notes (Optional)
Pasta and Bean Soup is not only delicious, but it is also packed with nutrients. It’s high in fiber, thanks to the beans, and provides protein that supports muscle health. The variety of vegetables adds vitamins and minerals, making it a smart choice for a healthy diet.
If using whole grain pasta, you can increase the fiber content further. This dish can be a wonderful addition to a balanced meal plan, suitable for vegetarians and those looking to cut back on meat.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Pasta and Bean Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Definitely! Frozen vegetables work well and are a great time-saver.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a little water or stock if it thickens too much.
Conclusion
Pasta and Bean Soup is a fantastic dish that combines nutrition, flavor, and comfort in one bowl. It’s simple to make and offers flexibility for customizing to your tastes. Ideal for any night of the week, it deserves a place in your recipe rotation. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a meal with friends and family, this soup provides warmth and satisfaction that is hard to beat. Enjoy making it as much as you will enjoy eating it!
