Pasta e Fagioli ( in New Jersey Pasts Fazool) is a traditional Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a hearty soup made with pasta and beans, and sometimes includes vegetables and meat. The dish originated in the regions of central Italy, where it was a popular meal among farmers and laborers due to its high nutritional value.
Over time, Pasta e Fagioli became a staple dish in Italian cuisine and has since spread to other parts of the world. Its popularity can be attributed to its simplicity, affordability, and delicious taste.
Today, there are many variations of Pasta e Fagioli, each with its own unique twist. Some recipes call for the addition of herbs and spices, while others use different types of pasta or beans. Regardless of the recipe, one thing is certain: Pasta e Fagioli is a comfort food that is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger.
PASTA FAZOOL in 15 minutes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (not the green stuff)
- ½ onion diced
- 4 clove garlic minced.
- ¼ pound Italian sausage (if not homemade use Johnsonville or Jimmy Dean)
- 2 cups chicken stock
- ½ cup spaghetti sauce
- 1 can bean with bacon soup
- 1 can cannellini beans with liquid (optional)
- ½ cup ham diced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup of milk or cream (optional to neutralize acidity)
- 1 cup cooked pasta
Obviously, this is not the long original Italian version. With the encouragement of my mother "Lucille" I began to learn to cook at age 7.
From kindergarten through sixth grade, we had one-hour for lunch. 15 minutes to walk home and 15 minutes to walk back to school. In that 30-minute time period I taught myself how to cook 15-to-20-minute meals. Most were prepared with leftovers and whatever canned goods in the pantry. Most often there was more than enough left over for a snack after school or dinner for the family.
Encourage your children and grandchildren to learn to cook by combing ingredients and building flavor. Cooking is Chemistry! When you do, they are less likely to go for fast food.
DIRECTIONS
Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil over medium heat 275ᵒF, stirring occasionally, cook until tender 3 to 4 minutes. Add sausage (if pre-cooked begin to add remaining ingredients). If uncooked, sausage will cook in 3 to 4 minutes.
Add chicken stock, spaghetti sauce, bean with bacon soup, cannellini beans with liquid, diced ham, Italian seasoning, milk and chopped pasta.
To serve, top with grated parmesan cheese and garnish with basil.