Pasta e Fagioli, meaning "pasta and beans," is a traditional peasant dish from central Italy that showcases humble ingredients like beans, pasta, and leftover meat, turning them into a nourishing soup that has fed families for centuries.

In Rome and Lazio, the soup often uses small pasta like ditalini and includes pancetta, while in the south, larger beans such as cannellini and a touch of tomato paste are common. Some northern versions add kale or spinach for extra greens.

It is typically served hot in a deep bowl, topped with a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of grated Pecorino Romano, and a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Pasta e Fagioli is a comforting everyday meal but is also popular during family gatherings in the cooler months, especially on Sundays and during festive holidays like Christmas Eve when hearty soups are favored.

Authentic ingredients include dried or canned cannellini or borlotti beans, ditalini pasta, olive oil, and a blend of Italian herbs. Substitutes can be kidney beans for a different texture, small shells for pasta, or ground turkey instead of beef.

A simple green salad with vinaigrette, bruschetta, or a side of roasted vegetables complement the soup, while a light white wine such as Verdicchio balances the richness.

Common errors include overcooking the pasta so it turns mushy, not draining the browned beef which makes the broth greasy, and adding beans too early, which can cause them to break down.

Cooking pasta separately allows you to control its doneness and prevents it from absorbing too much broth, which would make the soup overly thick and the pasta soggy.

Yes, you can prepare the soup base up to step 6, refrigerate for up to 4 days, and freeze for 2 months. Add freshly cooked pasta and beans when reheating to keep textures optimal.

The broth should be slightly thickened by the tomato base, the vegetables should be fork‑tender, the beans should stay whole, and the pasta should be al dente with a pleasant bite.

The YouTube channel Cooking with Honey focuses on approachable, home‑cooked comfort meals, often highlighting classic recipes with clear step‑by‑step guidance and practical kitchen tips.

Cooking with Honey emphasizes everyday ingredients and time‑saving techniques, presenting Italian dishes in a relaxed, family‑friendly style rather than focusing on gourmet plating or complex techniques.