Pasta soup is a classic comfort food that is both delicious and easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a satisfying and flavorful soup that the whole family will enjoy. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, and it’s also a great way to use up leftover pasta.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make an easy pasta soup, along with variations, serving suggestions, and time-saving tips. So grab your favorite pasta and let’s get started!
Ingredients
To create a delicious and satisfying easy pasta soup, you’ll need a few essential ingredients:
- Pasta: Choose a short pasta shape like penne, shells, or macaroni. You’ll need about 1 cup (120 grams) of uncooked pasta.
- Vegetables: Chop up 1 medium onion, 2 cloves of garlic, and 2-3 carrots into small pieces. You can also add other vegetables like celery, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Seasonings: Add flavor to your soup with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Broth: Use 4 cups (1 liter) of vegetable or chicken broth as the base of your soup.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: (Optional) Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of your soup for an extra touch of richness.
s
Preparing this pasta soup is a straightforward process that involves several easy steps:
Sautéing the vegetables
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Adding the garlic and herbs
Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and thyme. Cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Pouring in the broth and tomatoes
Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Adding the pasta
Stir in the uncooked pasta and cook according to the package directions, or until al dente (tender but still slightly firm to the bite).
Seasoning and finishing
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
For a satisfying meal, serve the pasta soup hot, piping from the pot. Consider pairing it with a crusty bread, such as sourdough or focaccia, to soak up the flavorful broth. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the soup, adding a refreshing contrast.
Garnishing and Presentation
To elevate the visual appeal of the soup, consider garnishing it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add a glossy finish and enhance the flavors. Serve in warm bowls, ensuring the soup retains its heat and comforting qualities.
Time-Saving Tips
Preparing pasta soup doesn’t have to be a time-consuming endeavor. Here are some practical tips to streamline the cooking process and save precious time in the kitchen:
Use pre-cut vegetables
Instead of spending time chopping vegetables, opt for pre-cut options. This can significantly reduce the prep time, especially if you’re using a variety of vegetables.
Cook pasta in the soup
Rather than boiling pasta separately, add it directly to the soup pot. This eliminates the need for an extra pot and saves time on cleanup.
Use a slow cooker
For a truly hands-off approach, consider using a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the cooker and let it simmer for several hours. This is a great option for busy individuals who want to come home to a ready-made meal.
Final Conclusion
With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this easy pasta soup recipe is a lifesaver for busy individuals and a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold night or a quick and easy lunch, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings.
So next time you’re in need of a delicious and convenient meal, give this recipe a try and enjoy the flavorful goodness of homemade pasta soup.
FAQ
Can I use any type of pasta for this soup?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Short pastas like penne or rotini work well, as do longer pastas like spaghetti or linguine. If you’re using a longer pasta, be sure to break it into smaller pieces before adding it to the soup.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes, you can add any vegetables you like to this soup. Some good options include carrots, celery, onions, bell peppers, and spinach. Just be sure to chop the vegetables into small pieces so that they cook evenly.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup over medium heat until warmed through.