Pasta Fagioli Soup

### Instructions:

**Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables**
In a large soup pot, heat the **olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **chopped onion**, **carrots**, and **celery**. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent. This will help develop a flavorful base for the soup.

Add the **garlic** and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.

**Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Beans**
Stir in the **chopped tomatoes** (or canned diced tomatoes), letting them cook for about 3-5 minutes. The tomatoes will soften and blend into the soup base, adding richness to the broth.

Next, add the **cannellini beans** (or other beans), including their juices, to the pot. Stir everything together to combine.

**Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings**
Pour in the **chicken broth** and **water**. Stir in the **Italian seasoning**, **bay leaves**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

**Step 4: Cook the Pasta**
Add the **pasta** to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

**Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)**
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the **fresh spinach** or **kale** (if using). The greens will wilt down and add a nice pop of color and extra nutrition to the soup.

**Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve**
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the **bay leaves** from the soup before serving.

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated **Parmesan cheese** and **fresh basil** for extra flavor and garnish.

### Tips for Making the Best Pasta Fagioli Soup:

– **Use homemade broth**: If you have time, making your own broth can take this soup to the next level. Homemade broth adds a depth of flavor that store-bought versions may lack.
– **Customize the beans**: While cannellini beans are the classic choice, you can experiment with other beans such as **kidney beans**, **great northern beans**, or even **chickpeas** for a different texture and flavor.
– **Add meat for extra richness**: If you like a heartier version, consider adding **ground beef**, **Italian sausage**, or **ham** to the soup. Brown the meat with the vegetables in the first step for added flavor.
– **Make it vegetarian**: This soup is easily made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skipping any meat additions.
– **Frozen vegetables**: If you don’t have fresh carrots, celery, or spinach on hand, you can use frozen vegetables as a convenient alternative.

### Why You’ll Love Pasta Fagioli Soup:

1. **Comforting and Hearty**: This soup is the perfect dish for a cold winter day. It’s warm, filling, and offers a comforting bowl of goodness.
2. **Packed with Nutrients**: With the addition of beans, vegetables, and greens, Pasta Fagioli Soup is a nutritious meal packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
3. **Easily Customizable**: Whether you prefer a meatless version or want to load it up with sausage or extra veggies, this recipe is incredibly adaptable to suit your tastes.
4. **Quick and Easy**: Despite its rich, complex flavor, this soup is simple to make and doesn’t require hours of preparation. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner option for busy families.

### Conclusion:

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s hearty, nutritious, and packed with comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a delicious homemade soup that’s perfect for cozy nights in. So, grab your pot and get ready to make a batch of this comforting and timeless dish!