Description
A classic Italian comfort dish that combines tender ditalini pasta, creamy cannellini beans, and a medley of aromatic vegetables in a rich, savory broth. This wholesome one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a nutritious and satisfying experience with every spoonful. By using high-quality pantry staples and fresh herbs like rosemary, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful, pork-free, and alcohol-free masterpiece that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
4 ounces turkey bacon, diced
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 ribs of celery, diced
1/2 cup fennel bulb, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon fennel seed, crushed
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
6 ounces tomato paste
6 cups chicken stock
2 cans (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 Parmigiano-Reggiano rind
6 ounces ditalini pasta
Instructions
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat and crisp the turkey bacon until golden, then remove and set aside.
Add the remaining olive oil to the pot, then sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and fennel bulb until softened.
Stir in the garlic, fennel seeds, salt, rosemary, and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.
Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly for 3 minutes to deepen the color and flavor.
Pour in the chicken stock and add the Parmesan rind, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add half of the beans and simmer for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Add the ditalini pasta and the remaining beans, cooking until the pasta is al dente.
Remove the Parmesan rind, stir the crispy turkey bacon back into the soup, and serve hot.
Notes
If desired, blend the first half of the beans before adding to the broth for a creamier texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; the pasta may absorb some broth, so add a splash of water when reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 15mg