• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Hungry Healthy Happy
  • Game Day Recipes
  • About
  • Recipes
  • FREE eBook
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Game Day Recipes
  • About
  • Recipes
  • FREE eBook
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
  • Let's get social!

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • Twitter
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • Game Day Recipes
    • About
    • Recipes
    • FREE eBook
    • Contact
    • Subscribe
  • Let's get social!

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • Twitter
  • ×

    Hungry Healthy Happy » Recipes » Soup

    Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Pasta and Bean Soup)

    Published: Feb 18, 2016 · Modified: Sep 20, 2021 by Dannii · This post may contain affiliate links · 130 Comments

    176 shares
    • 29
    Jump to Recipe
    Diet: Low Fat / Vegan
    Pasta e fagioli with a text title overlay.

    Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Pasta and Bean Soup) is one of those amazing soup recipes where you just throw everything in. A hearty classic Italian soup that is easy to adapt and you can use pretty much anything you have leftover in your fridge and freezer. Not only is it vegan, but it's low in calories and fat too.

    Two bowls of vegetable and pasta soup on a blue cloth next to bread and a spoon.

    This might just be the most filling and comforting soup there is. It is packed with vegetables, but also bursting with pasta and beans to make it filling. Italians aren't just famous for pizza and pasta, and this is an Italian classic. A delicious tomato based soup that is easy to adapt.

    Looking for some other hearty and filling recipes? Why not try our Sausage and Mash Pie, Stuffed Butternut Squash, Chorizo Mac and Cheese or Healthy Fish Pie.

    Jump to:
    • What you will need
    • Step by step
    • What is Pasta e Fagioli Soup?
    • Why should you try it?
    • What vegetables to add
    • Variations
    • What to serve with Pasta e Fagioli
    • FAQs
    • Extra tips
    • More soup recipes
    • Recipe
    • Feedback

    What you will need

    • Olive oil - You could swap with for sunflower or vegetable oil, but olive oil is always our base for cooking a recipe.
    • Onion, carrots and celery - The holy trinity of Italian cooking, not only does this add so much flavour to the soup, but it gives it a nice chunky texture.
    • Canned Tomatoes - Try to use the best quality tomatoes you can buy, as you really can tell the difference. Cheap tomatoes are really watery, and don't have much flavour.
    • Stock - Like the tomatoes, try to use the best quality stock you can - homemade is always best. If you are making this Pasta e Fagioli for young children, then use a low salt stock.
    • Beans - We used cannellini beans to keep it traditional, however if you wanted to make this a budget friendly soup then you could use whatever tinned beans you ha.
    • Dried herbs
    • Pasta - Like the beans, you can use any dried pasta shapes to keep this a budget friendly dish.
    • Cheese - Some freshly grated Parmesan really finishes this soup off.

    Step by step

    One: Put a little oil in to a large pan and add the onion, garlic, carrot and celery and gently sweat for 5 minutes.

    Two: Add the rest of the ingredients and simmer for 15 minutes.

    Three: Divide between 4 bowls and serve.

    Pasta, beans and vegetables in broth.

    What is Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

    Pasta e Fagioli translates to "pasta and beans" and that is pretty much the base of this soup, with a few other nutritious ingredients thrown in to make this a hearty and healthy vegan soup. Like most other classic Italian dishes, this started out as a peasant dish that used only cheap ingredients.

    Chunky vegetables in a tomato broth - this is total comfort food that will keep you warm through the winter.

    The soup is often called 'Pasta Fazool' where the word fazool is derived from the Sicilian or Neapolitan dialect for beans.

    Why should you try it?

    • Great vegan meal
    • Protein packed with beans
    • You can use any ingredients that you have
    • Low in calories
    • Virtually fat free

    What vegetables to add

    For this we used onion, celery, carrot and kale, but you can literally use anything. Some recipes use (courgette) zucchini, potatoes or green beans. Other recipes use peas or even root vegetables. It is entirely up to you. As long as you have the pasta and bean base, use any vegetables you have in the kitchen or garden.

    A bowl of pasta and bean soup in front of a large pot of more soup.

    Variations

    For this we used onion, celery, carrot and kale, but you can literally use anything. Some recipes use (courgette) zucchini, potatoes or green beans. Other recipes use peas or even root vegetables. It is entirely up to you. As long as you have the pasta and bean base, use any vegetables you have in the kitchen or garden.

    What to serve with Pasta e Fagioli

    This soup has pretty much everything you could want in it. It has pasta and bans and plenty of vegetables, so it is super filling and you don't really need anything else with it.

    If you did want something on this side, then just serve this with a French baguette that has been warmed up in the oven, or with some croutons on top. Or both. You could even go all out and make your own bread. Why not try our Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia?

    FAQs

    What's the difference between Pasta e Fagioli and minestrone soup?

    The main difference between pasta e fagioli and minestrone and is the variety of vegetables used in a minestrone. Fagioli is made up mostly of pasta and beans in a broth.

    What pasta to use in Pasta e Fagioli?

    You really can use any pasta shapes in this soup. We prefer smaller pasta shapes, as they are easier to scoop up with a spoon, but there is no need to use anything fancy, as you can use up whatever you have.
    You really can use any pasta shapes in this soup. We prefer smaller pasta shapes, as they are easier to scoop up with a spoon, but there is no need to use anything fancy, as you can use up whatever you have.

    Does Pasta e Fagioli have meat?

    We haven't put meat in ours, as we think it's a nice vegetarian dish. However you could add ground beef, sausage or bacon at the same time as the onions and carrots.

    How to store Pasta e Fagioli

    You can store this in the fridge in airtight containers for up to 2 days, but because the pasta will continue to absorb the liquid, it will be thicker when reheated. But it will still be delicious. Reheat in the microwave or on the hob (stove top) for a few minutes, until heated through.
    This soup freezes really well, making it great for batch cooking. It will keep for up to 3 months in an air tight container. Be sure not to fill the container to the top, as the liquid will expand to the top of the container.

    Can you make Pasta e Fagioli in the slow cooker?

    Yes, this soup can be made in the slow cooker. Still follow step one in the recipe below to sweat the harder vegetables and then put everything in the slow cooker (except the pasta) and cook for 4 hours on high. 20 minutes before it is finished, stir in the pasta.

    Extra tips

    • You can use any vegetables that you have.
    • Add a bit of a spice kick by adding some chili flakes when cooking.
    • If you want to add some meat to this, add some chopped bacon, ground sausage or pancetta when cooking the vegetables
    • This is supposed to be quite "brothy". If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water.
    • Add a little extra depth of flavour to the broth by swapping 100ml of it for white wine.
    • You can add some extra protein by adding half a can of drained green lentils.
    • The beans can be swapped for chickpeas.

    More soup recipes

    • One Pot Orzo Soup
    • Pho Ga (Chicken Noodle Soup)
    • Leftover Turkey Soup
    • Carrot and Coriander Soup

    If you’ve tried this paste e fagioli recipe, or any other recipe on the blog, then let us know how you got on in the comments below, we love hearing from you!
    Tag us in your creations on Instagram @hungryhealthyhappy - we love sharing photos when people make our recipes. You can use the hashtag #hungryhealthyhappy too.

    Recipe

    A bowl of Pasta e Fagioli on a blue towel.

    Pasta e Fagioli Soup (Pasta and Bean Soup)

    This Pasta e Fagioli Soup is one of those amazing soup recipes where you just throw everything in and you can use pretty much anything you have leftover in your fridge and freezer.
    the words low fat in a white circle.
    Low Fat
    An illustration of a v-shaped plant in a pot.
    Vegan
    5 from 4 votes
    Author: Dannii
    Pin Print Save recipe Recipe saved!
    Course: Soup
    Cuisine: Italian
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Cook Time: 20 minutes
    Total Time: 25 minutes
    Allergens:
    An illustration of a bunch of celery.
    Celery
    An illustration of two ears of wheat.
    Gluten
    Servings: 4 servings
    Calories: 187kcal
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Ingredients

    UK Metric Measures - US Customary Measures
    • 1 Onion - diced
    • 3 Garlic clove - crushed
    • 1 Carrot - diced
    • 2 Celery - diced
    • 240 g Cannellini beans
    • 100 g Pasta shapes
    • 1 litre Vegetable stock
    • 400 g Chopped tomatoes - canned
    • 240 g kale - chopped
    • 1 tablespoon Dried oregano
    • 1 pinch Sea salt and black pepper

    Instructions

    • Put a little oil in to a large pan and add the onion, garlic, carrot and celery and gently sweat for 5 minutes. 
    • Add the rest of the ingredients and simmer for 15 minutes.
    • Divide between 4 bowls and serve.

    Notes

    • You can use any vegetables that you have.
    • Add a bit of a spice kick by adding some chili flakes when cooking.
    • If you want to add some meat to this, add some chopped bacon, ground sausage or pancetta when cooking the vegetables
    • This is supposed to be quite "brothy". If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water.
    • Add a little extra depth of flavour to the broth by swapping 100ml of it for white wine.
    • You can add some extra protein by adding half a can of drained green lentils.
    • The beans can be swapped for chickpeas.

    Nutritional Information

    Serving: 1portion | Calories: 187kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 321mg | Potassium: 652mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 8680IU | Vitamin C: 85mg | Calcium: 198mg | Iron: 4mg
    DisclaimerThe nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.

    You'll love these too...

    • Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup
    • Watercress Soup
    • Butter Bean Soup
    • Broccoli and Stilton Soup

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. WhatLauraLoves

      February 21, 2016 at 3:42 pm

      Ooh yummy, this looks so delicious. I love the pasta added to it, makes it seem as though it would be really filling xxx

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:54 am

        It does make it feel like much more of a meal.

        Reply
    2. fashion-mommy

      February 20, 2016 at 11:42 pm

      This looks a lot like the broth my Italian father in law makes. Very tasty.

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:54 am

        I'm glad to hear that it looks authentic :)

        Reply
    3. Idaintyit

      February 20, 2016 at 9:59 pm

      I love a bit of pasta in soup! My mum used to add the tiny pasta (can't remember what it was called) into chicken noodle soup when we were ill and it was so yummy

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:55 am

        Chicken noodle soup has a magic way of making people feel better I think.

        Reply
    4. Helen @ Scrummy Lane

      February 20, 2016 at 9:24 pm

      Really needed to see something like this today, Dannii. I would be ashamed to tell you what I've eaten over the past few days!

      You're right that it's good to have some frozen veg in. And I was just reading that Iceland are pretty good these days.

      Great healthy meal idea!

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:55 am

        Nothing wrong with a break from the norm every now and then. Head to Iceland and stock up on some veggies and throw them in your meals to get back on track :)

        Reply
    5. Agness

      February 20, 2016 at 5:41 pm

      I love this recipe, girl! Your soup seems not only healthy and yummy, but also filling - one of the most things I love about soups. You can eat a bit and stay filled up for much longer. I also feel very light after having some soup for my lunch.

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:56 am

        It's a great way to get loads of veggies in your diet too.

        Reply
    6. Rachel

      February 20, 2016 at 3:21 pm

      This one has been printed out to try, anything to ensure the mister eats veggies x

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:57 am

        I hope you enjoy it!
        Having frozen vegetables from Iceland on hand makes it so much easier to get them in our diet.

        Reply
    7. Kari @ bite-sized thoughts

      February 20, 2016 at 2:04 pm

      I love these sorts of soups (especially at this time of year) - yours looks delicious.

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:57 am

        They are just so much more filling, aren't they.

        Reply
    8. Kacie

      February 20, 2016 at 1:55 pm

      This looks so healthy and nutritious, yet also very comforting and tasty!

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:57 am

        It is definitely all those things :)

        Reply
    9. Ana De- Jesus

      February 20, 2016 at 10:49 am

      I love pasta and bean soup it is delicious and is a staple in Portuguese culture. When I go out to Madeira they have it all the time!

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:57 am

        That's interesting to hear that it is so popular in Portugal too!

        Reply
    10. Bintu | Recipes From A Pantry

      February 20, 2016 at 7:36 am

      I am sat up in my cold bedroom right now just wanting a bowl of your very warming soup. Heading off to iceland to do some shopping tomorrow actually so looking forward to getting some Kale.

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:58 am

        Yes, stock up on the kale! Although, leave some in stock for me too please :)

        Reply
    11. Mel

      February 20, 2016 at 2:32 am

      This looks like my kind of quick lunch alternative to my plain pasta and butter I love so much. Yummy!

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:58 am

        Plain pasta and butter is so good though, isn't it. I used to eat that a lot as a student.

        Reply
    12. shobha

      February 19, 2016 at 10:43 pm

      Mouthwatering !
      This is such a nice and filling meal.

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:58 am

        It's delicious with the kale too.

        Reply
    13. Heidi Roberts

      February 19, 2016 at 10:23 pm

      Frozen Kale!!! this sounds like something from heaven, hate it when the kale in the packet goes a bit off - now that won't happen - getting some this weekend, thanks for the tip!

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:59 am

        Having Iceland frozen vegetables on hand makes it so much easier for us to eat more vegetables, and it cuts back on waste too. Win win!

        Reply
    14. Manila Spoon

      February 19, 2016 at 10:19 pm

      This is the perfect winter comfort food! It looks hearty and delicious!!!

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 9:59 am

        It's definitely needed in weather like this.

        Reply
    15. Tori Gabriel

      February 19, 2016 at 10:11 pm

      This soup sounds lovely and is nice and simple too. I love Iceland! They are brilliant for Frozen stuff and we always round up our cost on our bonus card. At the end of the year there is enough to cover all out Christmas food!

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 10:00 am

        That's awesome! An even happier Christmas when it is already paid for :)

        Reply
    16. Emma White

      February 19, 2016 at 9:01 pm

      oh my that looks totoally amazing I am so going to give this one a try

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 10:00 am

        I hope you enjoy it :)

        Reply
    17. Katie Davies

      February 19, 2016 at 7:41 pm

      This looks so yummy I love Italian food

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 10:01 am

        Me too, it's my favourite cuisine I think!

        Reply
    18. Alida @My Little Italian Kitchen

      February 19, 2016 at 7:34 pm

      Pasta e ravioli is a fab recipe! I could never ever get bored with this! Your addition of kale makes it quite interesting. I have never had it frozen and you are right, it is definitely a good idea to keep some in the freezer. So handy!

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 10:01 am

        It really cuts back and waste too, which is so important to us.

        Reply
    19. Claire

      February 19, 2016 at 6:38 pm

      This soup sounds absolutely delicious and bursting with flavour, I'm going to enjoy this recipe :)

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 10:01 am

        I do hope you enjoy it :D

        Reply
    20. Lucy @ BakingQueen74

      February 19, 2016 at 6:32 pm

      I need to go to Iceland to get some of this frozen kale, it sounds so convenient and will be perfect alongside my go-to frozen spinach. Love this recipe, a hearty soup is perfect for the time of year.

      Reply
      • Dannii

        February 22, 2016 at 10:02 am

        Yes, definitely go and stock up on it! But leave some for me pleeeeeeeeeeeeaase!

        Reply
    « Older Comments
    Newer Comments »

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Dannii in hat and glasses stood on a beach.
    heart icon

    Welcome!

    My name is Dannii. Here you will find easy family recipes with a healthy twist.
    Established in 2011, Hungry Healthy Happy has become one of the UK's most popular food blogs, with two successful recipe books published.

    About HHH»

    Game Day Recipes

    • Broccoli Slaw
    • Tortilla (Spanish Omelette)
    • BBQ Baked Chicken Wings
    • Paneer Tikka
    • 10 Easy Tapas Recipes
    • Easy Sausage Rolls

    Featured in

    Collage of media outlet logos.

    Popular Recipes

    • The Best Air Fryer Chips
    • 10 Minute Chickpea and Spinach Curry
    • Easy Tomato Pasta Sauce
    • 10 Minute Sticky Ginger Beef

    Footer

    ^ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Accessibility Policy
    • Advertising
    • Blog

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates
    • See our Web Stories page

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work with us
    • FAQ
    • Twitter
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok

    Featured in

    A selection of publications that Hungry Healthy Happy has been featured in

    As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2011-2023 Hungry Healthy Happy • All Rights Reserved • Site Design by D Martin

    • 29
    176 shares