Fideo Pasta Soup is a cozy dish bursting with flavor! It features thin pasta in a warm, tasty broth filled with tomatoes, spices, and veggies. Perfect for chilly days!
This soup is so easy to make. Just throw everything in one pot and let it simmer. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yum! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fideo Pasta: Fideo is thin vermicelli that’s perfect for this soup. If you can’t find it, regular vermicelli or even angel hair pasta will work too. Just break it into small pieces before toasting.
Broth: Chicken broth adds great flavor. For a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is a perfect swap. You can even use water, but consider adding more spices for depth.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a vibrant taste. If they’re out of season, canned tomatoes or tomato sauce are convenient substitutes. Just adjust the amount of salt, as canned varieties may be salty.
Spices: The ground cumin gives warmth to the soup. If you like it spicy, consider using smoked paprika or cayenne pepper instead of chili powder.
How Do I Perfectly Toast the Fideo Pasta?
Toasting the fideo pasta is crucial for adding a deep flavor to the soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning. It’s better to go slow!
- Stir continuously for even browning. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Watch closely for a golden color; once it starts changing, it’s almost done!
This small step is worth it, as it brings out a nutty flavor in the pasta that complements the soup perfectly!
What’s the Best Way to Enhance the Flavor?
To really amp up the flavor of your Fideo Pasta Soup, consider these tips:
- Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end for brightness.
- Include a squeeze of lime juice when serving; it brightens the overall flavor.
- If you have leftover vegetables, toss them in during the simmering step for added nutrition and taste!
These easy additions can elevate your dish, making it even more enjoyable for everyone!
Fideo Pasta Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups fideo pasta (thin vermicelli noodles)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, blended or finely chopped (or 1 cup tomato sauce)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for mild heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fideo Pasta Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 20 minutes to cook. So, in just around 30 minutes, you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Oil and Toasting the Pasta:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the fideo pasta. You’ll want to toast it, stirring frequently, until it turns a lovely golden brown. This should take around 3 to 5 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent, which will take about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and give it another 30 seconds to cook until that lovely aroma fills your kitchen.
3. Adding the Goodness:
Now pour in the blended or finely chopped tomatoes (or the tomato sauce) into the pot. Allow this to cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens a bit.
4. Mixing in the Broth and Spices:
Next, add the chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything well to combine those flavors!
5. Boiling and Simmering:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. If you’re using shredded chicken, stir it in now. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is tender and full of flavor.
6. Final Touches:
Once everything is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Then, it’s time to serve! Ladle your soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Don’t forget to add a lime wedge on the side for that extra zing!
Enjoy your cozy and flavorful Fideo Pasta Soup! Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you can’t find fideo pasta, feel free to use regular vermicelli or even broken angel hair pasta. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition!
What Can I Serve with Fideo Pasta Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. You could also add fresh avocado slices or quesadillas for a more filling meal!
