Hearty Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli

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Introduction

The rich and savory flavors of Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli are a delightful representation of classic Italian comfort food. This hearty soup melds together a variety of wholesome ingredients, including flavorful beans, tender pasta, and aromatic vegetables, creating a satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a nourishing meal on a chilly evening or as a comforting appetizer for friends and family, this dish promises to warm both the soul and the palate. It’s a perfect choice for gatherings, as it can be prepared in advance and is sure to please a crowd.

Pasta e Fagioli, translating to “pasta and beans,” is steeped in Italian tradition. Each family often has its own unique version, but the comforting essence remains the same. This particular recipe elevates the classic by incorporating ground beef or Italian sausage alongside a colorful medley of vegetables and beans, all swimming in a deliciously rich broth. What truly sets this recipe apart is the blend of spices and the addition of pasta, which gives it a hearty texture that is both filling and flavorsome.

For those who have experienced the cozy atmosphere of an Olive Garden restaurant, this recipe brings the warmth and comfort of that experience straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this Pasta e Fagioli will make any meal feel special.

Recipe Overview

– Total Time: 1 hour

– Prep Time: 15 minutes

– Cook Time: 45 minutes

– Yield/Servings: 6-8 servings

– Difficulty: Not specified in the recipe

Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 medium carrot, diced

– 1 celery stalk, diced

– 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

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

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

– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

– 4 cups beef broth

– 1 cup water

– 1 tablespoon tomato paste

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

2. Introduce the ground beef or Italian sausage into the pot. Cook, stirring frequently and breaking the meat into smaller pieces, until it is browned and fully cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it from the pot.

3. Next, stir in the cannellini beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (including their juices), beef broth, water, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to help the flavors meld beautifully.

5. After the simmering time, add the small pasta to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender yet al dente.

6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove the pot from heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.

7. Serve the Pasta e Fagioli hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a generous dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.

Presentation Tips

Serve in deep bowls, and consider adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top for an extra touch of flavor. A side of crusty bread makes a perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious broth!

Equipment Needed

Essential Cooking Tools

– Large heavy-bottomed pot

– Wooden spoon or spatula

– Measuring spoons and cups

– Knife and cutting board

Serving Suggestions

– Deep bowls for serving

– Ladle for portioning

– Grater for Parmesan cheese

Preparation Steps

Chopping the Vegetables

Preparing your ingredients ahead of time will streamline the cooking process. Begin by finely dicing the onion, as this forms the aromatic base of your soup. Next, mince the garlic cloves; the more finely you mince, the more flavor will be released as they sauté. Then, chop the medium carrot into small dice to ensure even cooking. Finally, cut the celery stalk into small pieces, which will add crunch and depth to your soup.

Cooking the Meat

Choosing between ground beef or Italian sausage allows you to customize the flavor profile of your Pasta e Fagioli. If you prefer a spicier touch, the Italian sausage is an excellent choice. Regardless of which meat you select, ensure it is evenly cooked. Break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks to achieve an even texture and promote browning. This step is crucial; fully cooked meat adds both flavor and heartiness to the dish.

Combining Ingredients

When it comes time to add the beans to your pot, remember to rinse and drain both the cannellini and kidney beans. This step not only removes excess sodium but also enhances the overall taste of the soup. The canned tomatoes, with their juices included, are essential for contributing moistness and flavor. Stirring these ingredients together properly helps to create that wonderful, homely aroma you’ll soon fill your kitchen with as the dish simmers to perfection.

The thoughtful preparation and cooking techniques outlined above will bring you closer to a heartwarming bowl of Pasta e Fagioli that reflects the essence of Italian cooking while providing comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. Enjoy the process, and look forward to the delicious results!

Sautéing the Aromatics

To begin your Pasta e Fagioli, you will want to focus on sautéing your aromatics properly. This initial step is crucial as it sets the foundation for the flavor profile of the entire dish. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough to create a slight shimmer on the surface before adding the vegetables.

Carefully add the finely diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery to the hot oil. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant. The goal is to achieve a translucent onion, tender carrots, and softened celery while allowing the aromatic garlic to release its flavors without burning. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This technique not only enhances the overall flavor of the soup but adds a lovely texture that becomes the heart of your dish.

Adding the Meats and Beans

Once your aromatics are perfectly sautéed, it’s time to incorporate the ground meat. Choose between beef or Italian sausage based on your preference. Add it to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Browning typically takes about 5-7 minutes, during which time you’ll want to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

After the meat is richly browned, stir in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans and kidney beans. These legumes not only contribute protein and fiber but also add an earthy flavor and satisfying texture to the soup. Gently fold in the beans to mix them uniformly with the meat and vegetable blend.

Building the Broth

With the meat and beans ready, it’s essential to create a deeply flavorful broth. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of water, stirring every so lightly to ensure all ingredients begin to meld. Adding tomato paste is next, which enhances the richness of the broth. You e should also incorporate dried oregano, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes for a kick of heat. This combination of herbs will infuse the soup with a warm and aromatic essence. Generously season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting as needed.

Simmering the Soup

Initial Boil

Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. This step is vital as the high temperature helps to marry all the flavors together, creating a robust foundation for your soup.

Reducing Heat

As soon as it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low. This simmering step is fundamental as it allows the ingredients to cook slowly, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and a rich, hearty broth. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure no ingredients stick to the bottom and that everything cooks evenly.

Stirring and Flavor Development

As your soup simmers, regularly stir the pot to help develop the flavor further while ensuring that the ingredients do not settle. This also allows the beans to soften slightly, contributing to a creamy texture that balances the overall dish.

Cooking the Pasta

Adding the Pasta

Approximately 30 minutes into simmering, introduce 1 cup of small pasta, such as ditalini or elbow macaroni. Adding the pasta at this stage ensures it cooks perfectly in the seasoned broth, soaking up the flavors as it tenderizes.

Monitoring for Doneness

Follow the pasta package instructions for al dente cooking times, typically around 8-10 minutes. Taste the pasta a minute or two before the suggested time to ensure you achieve the perfect texture.

Checking Seasoning

Once the pasta is cooked, taste the soup to assess the seasoning. Adjust with more salt, pepper, or even herbs if desired. This step is crucial because it ensures every element of your dish is well-seasoned and flavorful.

Serving the Dish

Garnish and Presentation

Serve your hearty Pasta e Fagioli hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Dust with grated Parmesan cheese just before serving to add a nutty richness that complements the soup’s flavor profile.

Ideal Pairings

Consider pairing your Pasta e Fagioli with crusty bread that’s perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top adds an extra layer of flavor while elevating the dish visually.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, transfer the Pasta e Fagioli into an airtight container for refrigeration. This dish can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Make sure the soup has cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture buildup inside the container.

Reheating Instructions

To enjoy the soup again, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if necessary to maintain consistency since the pasta can absorb some of the liquid during storage.

Health Benefits

Nutritional Overview

Pasta e Fagioli is a nutrient-rich dish. It is overall packed with protein from both the beans and meat, making it a fulfilling meal. The beans also provide ample fiber, supporting digestive health.

Dietary Considerations

If considered, this dish can be adapted for those seeking lower-fat options by selecting lean ground meat or using turkey instead of beef. Furthermore, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat; it will still be hearty with the beans and vegetables.

Flavor Profile and Texture

Taste Analysis

The taste of Pasta e Fagioli is a delightful blend of savory and herby notes, heightened by the simplicity of the ingredients. The optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, enhancing the overall enjoyment without overtaking the dish.

Texture Contrast

The texture of the finished soup is wonderfully complex. The creaminess from the beans combines with the sturdy body of the broth and chewy pasta, creating a comforting mouthfeel that’s quintessentially satisfying.

Conclusion

Olive Garden’s Pasta e Fagioli presents a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures that epitomizes comfort food. With rich broth, tender pasta, and heartiness from beans, this dish is both filling and satisfying. Prepared in about an hour, it serves as a delightful meal for any occasion.

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