Easy
Classic Rice and Beans
Perfectly seasoned rice and beans — the most satisfying budget meal you can make. Packed with protein and fiber, costs under $2 per serving, and tastes incredible.
30 min4 servings
dinnervegetarianvegan
DinnerItalianEasy
Pasta e Fagioli
The ultimate Italian comfort food — thick, hearty pasta and bean soup. Peasant food at its finest: cheap, filling, and deeply satisfying. Better the next day.
Prep
10 min
Cook
30 min
Total
40 min
Serves
6
Instructions
Ingredients listed when you need them.
All Ingredients
In the order you use them
Step 1 — Build the base
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz pancetta or bacon (optional)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 carrots (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 1 tsp thyme
Step 2 — Build the soup
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans (drained)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbows)
- 1 Parmesan rind (optional)
- Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes
Step 3 — Serve
- Extra-virgin olive oil (drizzle)
- Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread
Nutrition
Per serving (estimate)
340
Calories
16g
Protein
52g
Carbs
8g
Fat
12g
Fiber
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