Are you craving a hearty, soul-warming dish that combines the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with pure comfort? Look no further! This Bean and Potato Pasta Soup is about to become your new favorite go-to recipe that promises to transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. Packed with creamy white beans, tender potatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta, this soup is not just a meal – it's a warm hug in a bowl that will have your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup small pasta
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes until potatoes are nearly tender.
- Add the drained and rinsed white beans to the pot. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes to allow beans to heat through and absorb the broth's flavors.
- Stir in the small pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes or until pasta is al dente, ensuring it remains slightly firm to the bite.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning gradually and tasting as you go.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle into serving bowls and optionally garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your vegetables and broth can make a huge difference in the final taste of the soup.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Remember to add pasta towards the end and cook it al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Layer your flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding broth helps develop a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- Season gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste and adjust. This prevents over-seasoning.
- Let the soup rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Optional enhancement: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a parmesan rind while simmering or garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add additional vegetables like carrots or celery for more nutrition and flavor variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
