Pasta Soup

This Pasta Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for any occasion. It’s hearty, easy to prepare, and packed with nutritious veggies and mini farfalle pasta. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will surely become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients ensures each bowl is bursting with flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to substitute your favorite veggies or pasta shapes to suit your taste.
• Nutritious: Rich in vitamins from the spinach and fiber from the vegetables, this soup is as wholesome as it is delicious.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge and can be enjoyed the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand to make your preparation smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large 6-quart pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large 6-quart pot: Provides ample space for simmering the soup without splattering.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while mixing ingredients thoroughly.

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Ingredients

This Pasta Soup is packed with Italian sausage alternatives, veggies, fresh spinach, and mini farfalle. It’s hearty, easy to make, and sure to be a family favorite!

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound chicken sausage (or turkey sausage)
• 2-1/4 cups mirepoix (3/4 cup diced carrots, 3/4 cup diced celery, 3/4 cup diced yellow onion)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
• 2 (32-ounce) cartons reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

For the Pasta:

• 2 cups uncooked miniature farfalle pasta

For Serving:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach (coarsely chopped, lightly packed when measured)
• freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Crusty buttered bread (optional, for serving)

How to Make Pasta Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

1. Heat a large 6-quart pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chicken sausage.
3. Let it cook undisturbed for about 1 minute per side.
4. Break it into crumbles and cook until deeply browned, stirring occasionally.
5. Transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of grease from the pot.
2. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Stir in the mirepoix (carrots, celery, onion). Sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth along with seasonings; adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring the soup mixture to a boil.
2. Add uncooked miniature farfalle pasta.
3. Cook uncovered for 7–9 minutes, stirring often until pasta is tender.

Step 4: Finish with Spinach

1. Return the browned sausage to the pot.
2. Add chopped spinach and cook just until wilted (about 1–2 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve immediately with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and warm crusty buttered bread for dipping! Enjoy your hearty bowl of Pasta Soup!

How to Serve Pasta Soup

Pasta soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the soup just before serving for a creamy finish.
• Mozzarella: Add small mozzarella balls for a melty surprise in every bite.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Buttered Bread: Serve warm crusty buttered bread on the side for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Enjoy with garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the hearty pasta soup perfectly.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and richness to the meal.

How to Perfect Pasta Soup

Creating the perfect pasta soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly enhance flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning Early: Taste the broth early in cooking; adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta just until al dente, as it will soften further while resting in the soup.
• Store Separately: If making ahead, store pasta separately from the soup to prevent sogginess.
• Experiment with Broths: Try using different broths like chicken or vegetable for varying flavors.
• Add Citrus Zest: A touch of lemon or lime zest brightens up the overall taste of your pasta soup.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Soup

Complementing your pasta soup with the right side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery knots infused with garlic make an irresistible pairing.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers provide a filling complement alongside your soup.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil enhances your Italian theme.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side that pairs well with soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pasta Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the mirepoix can result in a bland soup. Always take time to sauté your vegetables to enhance their flavors.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushy results. Follow package instructions and check for al dente doneness as you near the end of cooking.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Every broth has a different salt level. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasonings accordingly for the best flavor.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted spinach or expired ingredients can ruin your soup. Always opt for fresh produce for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Ignoring Storage Guidelines: Improper storage can spoil your leftovers quickly. Ensure you follow proper storage techniques to keep your Pasta Soup fresh.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pasta Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or plastic bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pasta Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta Soup?

Pasta Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines pasta with broth, vegetables, and various proteins. It’s comforting and versatile for any meal.

How do I customize my Pasta Soup?

You can customize your Pasta Soup by adding different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or using alternative pastas such as whole wheat or gluten-free options.

Can I make this Pasta Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more hearty veggies or legumes for protein.

How long does it take to make Pasta Soup?

This recipe takes approximately 50 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.

What types of pasta work well in Pasta Soup?

Mini farfalle is great, but other small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo also work well in Pasta Soup recipes.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Soup is not only a delicious and hearty meal but also offers plenty of customization options. Whether you prefer extra veggies or different proteins, this recipe adapts easily to suit your tastes. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!