Lush & Creamy Pasta e Fagioli with Fennel Recipe

If you have been searching for a comforting bowl of warmth that combines rustic Italian charm with a subtle twist, then the Lush & Creamy Pasta e Fagioli with Fennel Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This hearty soup melds tender pasta, creamy cannellini beans, and the delicate anise flavor of fennel into a luscious, velvety broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s a dish that balances simplicity with sophistication, making every spoonful deeply satisfying and perfect for sharing with friends or cozying up on your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Lush & Creamy Pasta e Fagioli with Fennel Recipe lies in a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that each bring their own unique touch. From the sweetness of carrots to the aromatic depth of fennel, every component plays a crucial role in building the soup’s rich flavor and inviting texture.

• Ditalini or small pasta: These tiny tubes absorb the broth beautifully without overpowering the dish.
• Cannellini beans: Creamy and mild, they add protein and a smooth texture once gently mashed.
• Onion, finely chopped: Provides a savory foundation with subtle sweetness.
• Fennel bulb, diced: Offers a slender hint of licorice that brightens the bowl wonderfully.
• Carrots, diced: Adds color and natural sweetness balancing out the savory notes.
• Celery stalks, diced: Brings a fresh, crisp undercurrent to the soup’s earthy tones.
• Vegetable broth: Creates a flavorful base that ties all ingredients together.
• Diced tomatoes with juice: Introduces a gentle tang that lifts the overall palate.
• Garlic, minced: Infuses warmth and depth in every bite.
• Olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables and adds richness to the soup.
• Italian seasoning: Blends herbs like oregano and basil to enhance the Italian soul of the dish.
• Salt: Essential to bring all flavors into harmony.
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick, balancing the creaminess.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: For a vibrant, fresh finish that complements the richness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, salty topping that elevates the entire bowl.

How to Make Lush & Creamy Pasta e Fagioli with Fennel Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before diving in, take a moment to gather and prep all your vegetables and pantry staples. Having everything chopped and measured will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free, ensuring you can focus on bringing those wonderful flavors together.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Warm two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion, diced fennel, carrots, and celery. Let these veggies cook gently for about five to seven minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This stage is where the base flavor starts to develop, so savor the aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 3: Add Garlic for an Aromatic Boost

Stir in two cloves of minced garlic and let them cook for another minute. Garlic’s sharp, savory punch complements the sweetness of the vegetables perfectly, and this step ensures its flavor permeates the entire dish.

Step 4: Combine Beans and Tomatoes

Introduce the drained cannellini beans and canned diced tomatoes along with their juice to the pot. These ingredients bring heartiness and a hint of acidity that balance the soup beautifully. Stir everything well to marry the flavors before adding the liquid.

Step 5: Pour in the Broth and Season

Pour in four cups of vegetable broth, then sprinkle in one teaspoon each of Italian seasoning and salt, plus half a teaspoon of black pepper. Give everything a good stir and increase the heat until the mixture reaches a rolling boil. This broth carries the soup’s soul, so using a quality vegetable broth makes a noticeable difference.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta until Al Dente

Add one cup of ditalini pasta to the boiling pot and let it cook according to the package directions, usually between eight to ten minutes. The pasta needs to be tender but still hold some bite to prevent it from becoming mushy in the rich broth.

Step 7: Adjust Texture and Flavor

Once the pasta is just right, taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. For a creamier texture that gives this soup its name, use the back of a spoon to gently mash a few beans against the side of the pot. This releases their starch and thickens the broth naturally, making every spoonful even more comforting.

Step 8: Rest and Garnish

Remove the soup from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This pause helps the flavors settle beautifully. Then, ladle the pasta e fagioli into bowls and generously sprinkle with fresh parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts slightly into the warm soup, adding a savory finish that is utterly irresistible.

Step 9: Enjoy Your Creation

Serve this soul-warming bowl of Lush & Creamy Pasta e Fagioli with Fennel Recipe hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious broth. Every bite is a delightful celebration of textures and flavors, guaranteed to keep you cozy and satisfied.

How to Serve Lush & Creamy Pasta e Fagioli with Fennel Recipe

Garnishes

Aside from the fresh parsley and grated Parmesan, consider adding a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top before serving. A few red pepper flakes can add a lovely touch of heat, and a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the entire bowl if you want an uplifting contrast to the creamy broth.

Side Dishes

This pasta e fagioli pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or garlic-rubbed toasted bread. The fresh greens add crunch and lightness, and the bread is perfect for dipping into the luscious soup, making every meal feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful presentation, serve the soup in rustic bowls and sprinkle with finely chopped herbs just before offering it to your guests. You could also place individual ramekins under the broiler with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a quick gratin topping, adding a golden crust that contrasts with the creamy soup beneath.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for three to four days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen over time, so leftovers can sometimes taste even better the next day. Just remember that the pasta may continue to soak up liquid, so keep an eye on the consistency before reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze the Lush & Creamy Pasta e Fagioli with Fennel Recipe, but it’s best to cook the pasta separately and add it after thawing. This prevents the pasta from becoming overly soft or mushy. Store the soup base in a freezer-safe container for up to three months and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and adding freshly cooked pasta.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup feels too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. Remember to add cooked pasta at this stage if you froze it separately for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bean instead of cannellini?

Absolutely! Navy beans or Great Northern beans work well as alternatives, maintaining that creamy texture while slightly altering the flavor. Just be mindful that some beans may require longer cooking times.

Is fennel necessary for this recipe?

Fennel adds a subtle, aromatic licorice note that makes this pasta e fagioli unique and lush. However, if you’re not a fan, you can leave it out or substitute with a pinch of fennel seeds for a milder flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan as long as you skip the Parmesan cheese topping. You can use nutritional yeast as a cheesy, plant-based alternative that complements the soup nicely.

What pasta alternatives can I use?

Ditalini is traditional, but you can also use other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, small shells, or even orzo. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to achieve that perfect al dente bite.

How can I make this soup creamier without mashing the beans?

If you prefer not to mash beans, try stirring in a splash of cashew cream or blending a small portion of the soup until smooth, then mixing it back in. This will add creaminess while keeping the beans mostly whole.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Lush & Creamy Pasta e Fagioli with Fennel Recipe that invites you to slow down and savor every bite. Its rich textures and layered flavors make it a go-to comfort meal that never disappoints. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply need a bowl of heartwarming goodness, this recipe will quickly win a beloved spot in your kitchen repertoire. Give it a try—you deserve that cozy deliciousness.

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