Gluten Free Pasta e Fagioli

 Gluten-Free Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting Italian soup made with beans, vegetables, and gluten-free pasta. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for chilly days. The combination of beans, tomatoes, herbs, and tender pasta makes it a flavorful and nutritious meal. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, peeled and chopped

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (or any white beans)

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups gluten-free pasta (small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow work best)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

2. Add the Beans and Tomatoes:

1. Add Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the cannellini beans, kidney beans (if using), and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

3. Simmer the Soup:

1. Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a simmer.

2. Simmer for 10-15 Minutes: Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Cook the Pasta:

1. Add the Gluten-Free Pasta: Stir in the gluten-free pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.

Note: Be cautious not to overcook the gluten-free pasta, as it can become mushy faster than regular pasta.

5. Serve:

1. Garnish: Once the pasta is cooked, taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips:

Make It Creamier: For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or immersion blender before adding the pasta.

Add Greens: For extra nutrients, consider adding spinach, kale, or Swiss chard in the last few minutes of cooking.

Customize the Beans: You can use any beans you prefer (like chickpeas, great northern beans, or black beans) for a different flavor and texture.

Gluten-Free Pasta e Fagioli is a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious soup that is perfect for those following a gluten-free diet but still craving a comforting, classic Italian dish. Enjoy!