Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta

Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta is a delightful dish perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. This rich and flavorful soup combines a variety of beans, savory pancetta, and tender pasta, making it a filling meal that’s sure to please. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or bringing it to a potluck, this comforting soup stands out with its robust flavors and hearty ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a delicious meal without much fuss.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of pancetta, spices, and fresh ingredients infuses each bowl with rich taste.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or side dish, this soup fits various occasions from family dinners to festive gatherings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with beans and vegetables, this recipe provides fiber and protein while being satisfying.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Below are the key items you’ll need to prepare your Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Allows for ample space to simmer all ingredients together without overflow.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring; it won’t scratch your pot and helps mix everything evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Base:

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 6 oz pancetta, cut into ¼-inch cubes

Soup:

• 1 (16 oz) package Goya 16 Bean Soup Blend, rinsed and soaked if needed
• 4–6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• 1 cup small pasta, (ditalini or tubettini)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches:

• 1 tbsp high-quality red wine vinegar
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for serving
• Fresh basil leaves, julienned, for garnish

How to Make Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large soup pot, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.

Step 3: Crisp the Pancetta

Add the pancetta to the pot. Cook for about 5–7 minutes while stirring occasionally until crispy and browned.

Step 4: Add Beans & Broth

Stir in the bean blend along with 4 cups of chicken broth. Toss in the bay leaf at this stage.

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the red wine. Allow it to simmer for one minute so that the alcohol cooks off.

Step 6: Stir in Tomatoes & Seasonings

Add the crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well before bringing the mixture to a simmer.

Step 7: Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes until the beans become tender and flavorful.

Step 8: Add Pasta

Stir in your chosen pasta. Continue simmering uncovered for about 10 minutes or until al dente. If necessary, add extra broth if the soup thickens too much.

Step 9: Brighten the Flavor

Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Stir in both the red wine vinegar and freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

Step 10: Serve

Ladle your Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with more cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh basil leaves for an added touch of flavor.

How to Serve Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta

Serving Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta is all about enhancing its rich flavors and hearty texture. Here are some delightful suggestions to complement your warm bowl of soup.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing add a classic touch.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough: The tangy flavor of sourdough bread pairs well and is perfect for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread enhances the overall experience with its aromatic flavor.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Top the soup with fresh parsley or oregano for an aromatic finish.
• Chili Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of chili oil adds a spicy kick that complements the soup’s flavors.

Offer Extra Toppings

• Grated Cheese: Serve additional Parmigiano-Reggiano on the side for those who love cheesy goodness.
• Croutons: Adding crunchy croutons provides texture and makes each bite delightful.

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How to Perfect Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta

To make your Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Base: Start by sautéing your onions until they are caramelized for more depth in flavor.
• Soak Beans Overnight: If using dried beans, soaking them overnight can help reduce cooking time and improve texture.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick, have extra broth on hand to achieve your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your soup while cooking to ensure seasoning is just right.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe freezes well, so making extra means you’ll have a delicious meal ready for another day!

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup can elevate your meal further. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
2. Focaccia Bread: Soft, herb-infused focaccia offers a lovely texture and flavor that complements the dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and nutrition alongside the hearty soup.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes an elegant addition.
5. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes can be served alongside or even in the soup for added heartiness.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa add a wholesome touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta can be easy, but some common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not soaking the beans: If you skip soaking the beans, they may take longer to cook and could remain tough. Always soak them overnight or for at least a few hours.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Using subpar ingredients can lead to bland soup. Opt for high-quality pancetta, fresh herbs, and good chicken broth for better flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long will make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking and check for doneness regularly.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting as you cook is crucial. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper to your liking before serving.
• Skipping the vinegar: Adding vinegar at the end brightens flavors significantly. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth and balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup lasts about 3–4 days in the fridge.
• Allow it to cool before sealing for storage.

Freezing Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta, here are some answers:

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! You can mix different beans or use canned beans for convenience. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace pancetta with smoked tofu or omit it entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What pasta works best in this soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini or tubettini are ideal as they blend well with the beans and broth.

Can I add vegetables to my Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for later use.

Final Thoughts

Hearty Italian 16-Bean Soup with Pancetta & Pasta is not just filling but also rich in flavors that cater to various tastes. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with different beans or vegetables based on your preference. Enjoy this comforting dish any time of year!