Soak the Beans: If using dried beans, soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse them before cooking. If you’re short on time, you can use canned beans (about two cans, drained and rinsed).
Prepare the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, and soaked beans. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes (or longer if using dried beans), until the beans are tender.
Cook the Pasta: While the soup is simmering, cook the pasta separately in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Blend (Optional): For a creamy texture, take a portion of the soup and blend it in a food processor or with an immersion blender, then return it to the pot. This step adds a velvety richness to the soup without losing the chunky texture.
Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked pasta to the soup and stir well. Let everything simmer together for another 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Why We Love This Recipe:
This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty beans, tender pasta, and rich tomato broth into one bowl of deliciousness. It’s a dish that takes you back to a simpler time, evoking fond memories of my Italian grandma making this for us on chilly afternoons. We’d gather around the table, savoring every bite, the aroma filling the house. Over the years, it’s become a staple in our home, making its way into our weekly meals. It’s not just a dish; it’s a part of our heritage.
Pro Tip:
For extra flavor, you can drizzle a bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the soup just before serving, giving it that authentic Italian finish.
Enjoy this timeless family recipe and share the love with your own family.
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