Italian bean and pasta soup
Italian bean and pasta soup, often called 'Pasta e Fagioli,' is a hearty, rustic soup originating from Italy. It typically features a combination of small pasta shapes, beans (like cannellini or borlotti), aromatic vegetables, and a savory broth, sometimes enriched with pancetta or other cured meats.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a balanced, high-fiber meal, providing a good mix of complex carbohydrates from the pasta and beans, along with plant-based protein. A typical serving offers a moderate calorie count, around 300-400 kcal, and is rich in nutrients like iron, potassium, and folate.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Vitamin A | 60 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
| Phosphorus | 120 mg |
| Folate | 80 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it's a classic example of Italian 'cucina povera' (peasant cooking), designed to be economical and nourishing. Nutritionally, the combination of legumes and grains creates a complete protein, making it a satisfying and sustainable meal.
