Delight in the simplicity and joy of making alphabet soup, a dish that brings back childhood memories and is perfect for a quick, healthy meal. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also customizable to suit your taste preferences.
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s a quick and easy meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The use of alphabet pasta makes it fun for kids, encouraging them to eat their vegetables.
- It’s highly customizable; you can add any vegetables or proteins you have on hand.
- The soup is nutritious, packed with vitamins from the vegetables and protein from the broth.
- It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables, reducing food waste.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup alphabet pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your soup.
Step 2: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This will take about 5 minutes. The broth is the soul of the soup, so choose a high-quality one for the best flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Once the broth is boiling, add the alphabet pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be al dente, not mushy.
Step 4: Season to Taste
After the pasta is cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out, so start with a little and adjust as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This soup is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some of the broth upon standing, so you may need to add a little water or broth when reheating.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a Parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers. It will melt into the broth, adding a rich, umami depth. If you’re short on time, use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh. They’re already diced and will cook quickly. To make the soup more filling, add cooked chicken, beef, or beans. For a creamy version, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the vegetables.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and add tofu or chickpeas for protein.
- Turn it into a minestrone by adding tomatoes, zucchini, and kidney beans.
- For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup before adding the pasta.
- Add leafy greens like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any small pasta will work, but the alphabet pasta adds a fun element that kids love. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How can I make this soup gluten-free? Use gluten-free alphabet pasta or another gluten-free small pasta. Also, ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Can I freeze alphabet soup? It’s best enjoyed fresh because the pasta can become mushy upon thawing. If you do freeze it, undercook the pasta slightly and expect some texture change.
Summary
This easy alphabet soup recipe is a quick, nutritious, and fun meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Customizable and kid-friendly, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
