Mediterranean Mixed Pasta, Bean, and Tomato Soup
This Mediterranean Mixed Pasta, Bean, and Tomato Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender pasta, protein-packed beans, and a rich tomato base. Inspired by Mediterranean cooking, it’s light yet filling, packed with vegetables, herbs, and warming spices. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed fresh or stored for meal prep.
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) mixed beans (such as cannellini, kidney, or chickpeas), drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
½ cup small pasta (such as ditalini, elbow, or small shells)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
Optional garnish: grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
Sauté the aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add tomatoes and beans:
Pour in the diced tomatoes and mixed beans. Stir to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Season and simmer:
Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cook the pasta:
Add the pasta to the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Add greens:
Stir in the spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until wilted.
Serve:
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
Use small pasta shapes: They cook evenly and blend well in soups.
Rinse canned beans: Reduces sodium and removes excess starch.
Layer flavors: Sautéing aromatics before adding liquids deepens the taste.
Simmer gently: Avoid boiling the pasta vigorously to prevent it from breaking down.
Add greens last: Preserves color, texture, and nutrients.
Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; beans can be salty.
Make it thicker: Blend a portion of the beans and vegetables for a creamier texture.
Use fresh herbs: Garnishing with parsley or basil brightens flavors.
Variations
Spicy version: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or smoked paprika.
Protein boost: Include cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage.
Low-carb version: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
Mediterranean twist: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts.
Creamy version: Stir in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or cream before serving.
Vegetable medley: Include zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta or small rice-shaped pasta.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a little extra broth when reheating if needed.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Freeze before adding pasta to avoid mushy noodles. Reheat and cook pasta separately.
Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
A: Yes, soak and cook them first, then add to the soup.
Q: Can this be vegan?
A: Absolutely. Use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan garnish.
Q: What pairs well with this soup?
A: Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a Mediterranean salad complements it well.
Q: How can I make it thicker or creamier?
A: Blend a portion of the beans or vegetables before adding pasta.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms work beautifully.
Nutrition
(Per Serving – Approx. 1½ cups)
Calories: 220
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 6 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 420 mg
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Mixed Pasta, Bean, and Tomato Soup is a wholesome, satisfying, and flexible dish. With its combination of pasta, beans, and vegetables, it’s filling enough for a main meal while remaining light and nutritious. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it’s a go-to soup for weeknight dinners or meal prep, delivering Mediterranean-inspired flavors in every comforting spoonful.