Introduction:

Pasta Fagioli is a beloved Italian dish that combines pasta and beans in a savory broth, creating a comforting and hearty meal. Traditionally rich and filling, it can be quite calorie-heavy, but with the WW Low Point Pasta Fagioli recipe, you can enjoy this classic soup without compromising on flavor or your Weight Watchers (WW) points. This version of Pasta Fagioli is carefully crafted to be low in SmartPoints, making it an ideal choice for those looking to stick to a healthy eating plan while savoring the flavors of Italy.

This recipe includes a variety of fresh ingredients and a few simple modifications to keep it light, yet satisfying. Whether you are preparing it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a gathering, this WW-friendly Pasta Fagioli will become your go-to for comfort food with a healthy twist. In this detailed, professional guide, we’ll break down everything from ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and nutritional breakdowns to WW SmartPoints calculations.

Ingredients for WW Low Point Pasta Fagioli:

The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients while making swaps to keep the dish lower in calories and SmartPoints. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced (optional, for added texture and nutrition)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, no added sugar
  • 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (you can also use Great Northern beans)
  • 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or whole wheat pasta)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste (to enhance flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (adds depth of flavor)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, to keep it low on SmartPoints, use sparingly)

Equipment Needed:

To make the WW Low Point Pasta Fagioli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools:

  • Large soup pot (to cook the soup)
  • Cutting board (for chopping vegetables)
  • Sharp knife (for dicing the vegetables and garlic)
  • Measuring spoons (to accurately measure your seasonings)
  • Strainer (to drain and rinse the beans)
  • Ladle (for serving)
  • Wooden spoon (for stirring the soup)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Start by prepping your vegetables. Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the carrots, celery, and zucchini (if using). These fresh vegetables will form the flavorful base of the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften and the onions turn translucent.

If you’re using zucchini, add it to the pot during the last 2 minutes of sautéing to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Broth

Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the spices cook for about 1 minute, allowing them to release their flavors. Then, pour in the 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth and the 1 can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Incorporate the Beans and Pasta

Add the 1 can of cannellini beans, making sure they are well-drained and rinsed, and stir them into the soup. Next, bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.

Once the soup reaches a simmer, stir in the 1 cup of small pasta. You can use any small pasta shape such as ditalini or elbow macaroni. Let the soup simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Add the Tomato Paste and Balsamic Vinegar

After the pasta has cooked through, stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste to enhance the soup’s flavor. The tomato paste will give the soup a richer, more savory taste. Then, add 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar for depth and a subtle tang.

Step 6: Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a bit more acidity, feel free to add another splash of balsamic vinegar.

Step 7: Serve the Soup

Remove the bay leaf from the soup before serving. Ladle the hot WW Low Point Pasta Fagioli into bowls. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley and a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown:

The WW Low Point Pasta Fagioli is a nutritious and filling soup with plenty of vegetables and beans. It’s a great source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. Here is the approximate nutritional information for one serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fat: 5g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
    • Fiber: 7g
    • Net Carbs: 23g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 400mg (depending on broth used)
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

WW SmartPoints:

For those following Weight Watchers (WW), this Low Point Pasta Fagioli is an excellent option for a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal points. Here is the approximate SmartPoints breakdown based on 6 servings:

  • SmartPoints (Green Plan): 4 points per serving
  • SmartPoints (Blue Plan): 3 points per serving
  • SmartPoints (Purple Plan): 2 points per serving

The exact SmartPoints may vary based on substitutions you make, such as using different broths, reducing oil, or adding extra ingredients like cheese. However, this recipe is designed to keep the points as low as possible while still offering a delicious and fulfilling meal.

Tips for Making the Best WW Low Point Pasta Fagioli:

  1. Use Low-Sodium Broth: To keep the soup healthy and low in sodium, always opt for low-sodium broth. You can also make your own broth at home for more control over the ingredients.
  2. Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables to the soup, such as spinach, kale, or green beans. This will increase the nutritional value without adding many calories or SmartPoints.
  3. Swap Pasta for Zoodles: For an even lighter version, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles). This will lower the carb count significantly and still provide great texture.
  4. Make it Vegan: This soup is already vegetarian, but you can easily make it vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a vegan-friendly cheese alternative.
  5. Use Whole Wheat Pasta: If you prefer whole grains, swap in whole wheat pasta for a fiber boost and to increase the health benefits.
  6. Add More Protein: If you’d like to increase the protein content of this soup, you can add some cooked chicken breast, turkey, or ground turkey to the soup. Just be mindful of the points if you’re following WW.

How to Store and Reheat:

This Low Point Pasta Fagioli keeps well and is perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

  • Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place the soup in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If the soup thickens too much while stored, you can add a splash of water or broth to thin it out.

Conclusion:

The WW Low Point Pasta Fagioli is the perfect example of how you can enjoy comforting, traditional Italian dishes while still staying within your WW points. With its hearty ingredients, rich flavors, and minimal SmartPoints, it’s ideal for anyone looking to stay on track with their healthy eating goals.

This soup not only satisfies hunger with its filling beans and pasta but also provides an excellent balance of nutrients. You can customize it to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile and adaptable recipe. Whether you’re preparing a meal for yourself or feeding the whole family, this recipe will leave everyone satisfied—and you won’t have to worry about going over your points!

Enjoy this light yet hearty soup as a meal on its own, paired with a salad, or as a side dish for a complete dinner. With low SmartPoints, nutritious ingredients, and unbeatable flavor, this WW Low Point Pasta Fagioli will become a staple in your recipe rotation.