Also known stateside as "pasta fazool," this hearty Italian soup makes a satisfying meal out of a few humble ingredients.

Ingredients

• 4 ounce slab pancetta or bacon, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• kosher salt
• black pepper
• 2 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 quart chicken stock or low-sodium broth
• two 15-ounce cans crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup ditalini
• one 15-ounce can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• shredded parmigiano-reggiano cheese, torn basil, and crusty bread, for serving

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, cook the pancetta in the olive oil over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until the fat is rendered, about 5 minutes. Add the onion and a generous pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 7 minutes. Add the garlic, oregano, and crushed red pepper and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the wine to the saucepan and cook over moderately high heat until nearly absorbed, about 2 minutes. Add the chicken stock and tomatoes and bring to a boil over high heat. Stir in the pasta and simmer over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir in the beans and simmer for 5 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with shredded cheese, torn basil, and crusty bread.