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Is pasta fagioli the same as minestrone?

When discussing classic Italian soups, two dishes that often come to mind are Pasta Fagioli and Minestrone. Both are hearty, comforting, and loaded with vegetables and beans. However, many people wonder: Are they the same? The short answer is no. While both soups share similar ingredients, their textures, flavors, and preparation methods set them apart.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)
  • 1 cup ditalini pasta
  • 1 zucchini, diced (optional for Minestrone)
  • 1 cup cabbage, chopped (optional for Minestrone)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes.
  • Add Beans and Vegetables: Stir in the cannellini beans, kidney beans, and optional vegetables like zucchini and cabbage for Minestrone. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
  • Cook the Pasta Separately: In a separate pot, cook the pasta until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the soup before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

While Pasta Fagioli and Minestrone share some similar ingredients, they are distinctly different soups with unique flavors and textures. Pasta Fagioli is thicker and heartier, with a focus on beans and pasta, while Minestrone is lighter, filled with seasonal vegetables and often served as a starter.

Both dishes are staples in Italian cuisine and offer versatility, making them easily adaptable for different dietary preferences. Try them both and decide which one suits your palate best!

  • Author: Lyli Mildiva
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Keywords: Pasta Fagioli, Minestrone, Italian soup, vegetarian soup, bean soup, healthy Italian recipes, Minestrone recipe, Pasta Fagioli recipe, vegetable soup