We’ve fallen head over heels for Dom DeLuise’s take on Pasta Fagioli, a beloved Italian classic that brings bold flavors to your table. As fans of hearty soups, we’re excited to dive into this version from the late comedian and cook, who infused his recipes with warmth and simplicity.
Originating from Italy’s rustic kitchens, Pasta Fagioli combines pasta, beans, and veggies in a comforting bowl that’s easy to whip up. Our spin on DeLuise’s recipe keeps it authentic yet approachable, making it a go-to for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
In our exploration of Dom DeLuise’s Pasta Fagioli recipe, we start by assembling the key ingredients that capture the dish’s hearty, rustic charm. These components reflect the simple, authentic flavors of Italian tradition, ordered as they come into play during preparation.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing to build a flavorful base.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth; prepare by dicing it fresh for the initial sauté.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides aromatic punch; mince just before cooking to preserve potency.
- 2 medium carrots, diced: Contributes natural sweetness and texture; cut into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Offers a crisp, fresh element; slice thinly to ensure quick softening.
- 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: The heart of the dish; rinse well to remove excess sodium before adding.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and richness; use no-salt-added for better flavor control.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Forms the comforting broth base; opt for low-sodium to adjust seasoning easily.
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni): Adds body and heartiness; measure uncooked for the right absorption.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses herbal notes; crush lightly between fingers for enhanced aroma.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the Italian essence; add toward the end for fresh flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season gradually; start with ½ teaspoon salt and adjust after tasting the broth.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A final touch for vibrancy; chop right before serving to maintain freshness.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for Dom DeLuise’s Pasta Fagioli, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create this hearty Italian dish. Our method ensures every bite bursts with authentic flavors and comforting textures.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients to streamline the process and enhance the dish’s rustic appeal. Begin by chopping 1 medium onion into fine dice, mincing 3 garlic cloves for a pungent kick, and slicing 2 carrots and 2 celery stalks into 1/4-inch pieces to build a flavorful base.
- Rinse and drain two 15-ounce cans of cannellini beans to remove excess sodium and maintain their creamy texture.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried basil to infuse earthy notes.
- Gather 8 ounces of small pasta, such as ditalini or elbow macaroni, and set aside 4 cups of broth (vegetable or chicken) for the soup’s rich broth.
- Have 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes ready, and prepare fresh parsley by chopping 1/4 cup for a vibrant garnish that adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.
This preparation allows the vegetables’ natural sweetness and the beans’ earthiness to shine, setting the stage for a soul-warming meal.
Cook the Soup
With our ingredients prepped, we now build the soup’s foundation in a large pot over medium heat, where the scents of garlic and herbs will soon fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the pot until it shimmers, then add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their sweet, savory essence, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.
- Stir in the drained cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a robust, comforting broth that evokes traditional Italian kitchens.
- While the soup simmers, cook the pasta separately in a pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente—typically 8-10 minutes—to keep it firm and prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup.
This step transforms simple components into a hearty, flavorful soup that captures the essence of Dom DeLuise’s approachable style.
Assemble and Serve
Finally, we bring everything together for a satisfying finish, ensuring each bowl of Pasta Fagioli delivers a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the soup pot and stir gently for 2-3 minutes to incorporate, letting the pasta absorb the savory broth for added depth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or black pepper to enhance the robust flavors.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the chopped fresh parsley, which adds a bright, peppery contrast to the warm, creamy beans and tender vegetables. Serve immediately for the best experience, pairing it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of this comforting classic.
Conclusion
We’ve cherished Dom DeLuise’s Pasta Fagioli for its timeless comfort and ease.
This hearty dish brings warmth to our table and connects us to Italian traditions.
It’s more than a meal—it’s a simple joy we’ll return to time and again.
Give it a try in your kitchen and make it your own family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pasta Fagioli?
Pasta Fagioli is a classic Italian soup featuring pasta, beans, and vegetables, originating from rustic kitchens. It’s known for its hearty, comforting flavors, often made with simple, fresh ingredients for a cozy family meal.
Who was Dom DeLuise and how does his version differ?
Dom DeLuise was a beloved actor and cook who shared a warm, simple take on Pasta Fagioli. His version stays true to traditional Italian roots while emphasizing ease of preparation, making it accessible for home cooks without losing the dish’s authentic, rustic charm.
What are the key ingredients in Dom DeLuise’s Pasta Fagioli?
The main ingredients include olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, broth, small pasta, dried oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish. Each adds to the soup’s rich flavor and texture, highlighting fresh veggies and herbs for the best results.
How do I prepare Dom DeLuise’s Pasta Fagioli?
Start by chopping vegetables and sautéing them in olive oil. Add beans, tomatoes, broth, and herbs, then simmer to blend flavors. Cook pasta separately to keep it al dente, combine everything, and garnish with parsley. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal, ready in about 45 minutes.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes, you can swap cannellini beans for other beans like kidney or great northern. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or substitute dried herbs with fresh ones. Keep the core veggies like onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for the authentic taste, but adjust based on what’s available.
How long does it take to make this dish?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking takes around 30 minutes, so the whole process is roughly 45 minutes. It’s a quick, straightforward recipe perfect for weeknight dinners.
What tips ensure the best results with this recipe?
Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor, and don’t overcook the pasta to avoid mushiness. Let the soup simmer to meld flavors fully. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, and pair with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Fresh parsley adds a nice finishing touch.