New Year's "Good Luck" Pasta Fazool
New Year's "Good Luck" Pasta Fazool is a traditional Italian dish that is believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the New Year. This hearty and comforting soup is a staple in many Italian households, especially during the holiday season. The dish is made with simple and wholesome ingredients such as pasta, beans, tomatoes, and a variety of herbs and spices, making it a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for celebrating the start of a new year.
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins
Servings:
6
Yield:
6 servings
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Place a cold soup pot over medium heat. Add sliced bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the fat has rendered out and the bacon begins to crisp up, about 5 minutes. Drain off most of the excess fat with a paper towel if desired, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot. Add onions, celery, and salt. Saute until and softened onions turn translucent, 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 2
Stir in black pepper, cayenne, dried thyme, dried oregano, and tomato paste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomato paste starts to caramelize onto the bottom of the pan, about 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic, and cook, stirring, for 1 to 2 more minutes. Stir in chicken broth and water and raise the heat to high. Bring to a simmer over high heat; reduce heat to medium and let simmer while you prep the Swiss chard.
Step 3
Remove chard leaves from tough stems. Gather a handful of leaves and slice across in one direction; turn and slice across again. Repeat with remaining chard. Place into a bowl and fill with water. Swish around to remove dirt; transfer washed greens a handful at a time to another bowl to drain.
Step 4
Stir the Swiss chard into the pot and simmer over medium heat until greens become tender, about 10 minutes. Season with salt.
Step 5
Stir in the drained beans and raise the heat to high; bring to a boil. Stir in pasta and reduce heat to medium-high. Cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally, 12 to 15 minutes.
Step 6
Once the pasta is tender, check the seasoning. Serve immediately in large bowls. Garnish with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and red pepper flakes.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
293
Calories
10g
Fat
35g
Carbs
17g
Protein
Complement
The tradition of eating Pasta Fazool on New Year's Day is believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. The round shape of the pasta symbolizes coins, while the beans represent abundance and prosperity. Additionally, the act of sharing a warm and comforting meal with loved ones is thought to bring joy and unity in the family. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or as a side, New Year's "Good Luck" Pasta Fazool is a beloved tradition that brings people together to celebrate and welcome the opportunities and blessings that the new year has to offer.