Indulge in the timeless flavors of Southern Italy with our family's beloved classic, Pasta Fagioli. As one of the most traditional Southern Italian recipes pasta fagioli is a true masterpiece, offering a creamy, flavorful, and slightly spicy experience that's perfect for any season. What's more, it's not just a treat for your taste buds but also a wholesome dish packed with health benefits. Get ready to enjoy the warmth and comfort of this Italian favorite, and discover why it has stood the test of time.

Ingredients (serves 2):

- 5.6 oz short pasta
- 1 can of cooked white beans, 8.8 oz, or dry beans
(soaked overnight)
- rosemary, 4-5 leaves
- Garlic Infused Olive Oil, Hot Chili Oil
- 1.8 oz grated parmesan (skip for a vegan version)
- 8 walnuts (optional)
- Salt
- Pepper

Directions:

1. Infuse the Flavors: In a pan, gently sauté the fresh rosemary in a drizzle of Garlic Infused Olive Oil.

2. Blend the Beans: Take half of your beans and blend them with their storage water. This creates a creamy base for your pasta.

3. Create the Bean Sauce: Add the blended bean mixture and the remaining whole beans to the sautéed garlic and rosemary. Mix them well and let them simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.

4. Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, cook the pasta al dente in generously salted water. Once cooked, drain it and directly add it to the bean sauce.

5. Add Parmesan and Walnuts: Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese and, if you prefer, the optional walnuts into the pasta and bean mixture. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

6. Spice it Up: For that final kick, drizzle some Hot Chili Oil over your Pasta Fagioli. Give it a good mix to distribute the flavors evenly.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Your Italian Pasta e Fagioli is ready to delight your taste buds. Serve it hot and savor the rich, comforting taste of Southern Italy.

Health Benefits:

Pasta e Fagioli is not only a delightful dish but also a healthy choice. It's a great source of plant-based protein from the beans, and the rosemary and garlic offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, you can skip the Parmesan for a vegan version, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Versatility:

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by swapping out the beans for other legumes like chickpeas or lentils. Each variation brings a unique twist to this classic Italian favorite.