Fideo Pasta Soup is a warm and cozy dish filled with tiny pasta, tasty broth, and colorful veggies. It’s like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you need comfort food!
I love how quick and easy this soup is to whip up. Just toss everything in, let it simmer, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Who doesn’t love a one-pot wonder? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fideo Pasta: Fideo is a thin, short pasta that works wonderfully in soups. If you can’t find it, broken vermicelli works just as well, giving a similar texture!
Vegetable Oil: I use vegetable oil for sautéing, but you can substitute it with olive oil for a richer flavor. Just be aware of the smoke point when heating.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add brightness, but if they’re out of season, go for canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce. It’ll still taste great!
Broth: I often use chicken broth for added flavor, but vegetable broth is a perfect alternative for a vegetarian version. Just watch the seasoning since veggie broth can be saltier.
Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh herbs really brighten the soup. If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley is a great option, or leave it out altogether if you prefer.
How Do I Toast Fideo Pasta Without Burning It?
Toasting the fideo is a key step that enhances the nutty flavor, but it can be tricky. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Heat the oil over medium heat. This prevents the pasta from cooking too fast.
- Keep stirring the pasta constantly while it toasts. It should take about 3-5 minutes.
- As soon as the pasta turns golden brown, remove it from heat to avoid burning.
This technique really adds a depth of flavor to your soup, making it all the more comforting!
How to Make Fideo Pasta Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup fideo pasta (or broken vermicelli pasta)
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup tomato sauce)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fideo Pasta Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil and Toast the Pasta:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the fideo pasta. Stir it frequently for about 3-5 minutes until it turns golden brown. This step adds a lovely nutty flavor—just make sure not to burn it!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook these for about 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This is where the wonderful aroma starts filling your kitchen!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Now, mix in the chopped tomatoes (or tomato sauce). Let this cook for another 3-4 minutes. You want the tomatoes to break down and create a nice, thick sauce.
4. Pour in the Broth:
After the sauce has come together, add the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder (if you’re using it), and season with salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to cook until tender. You can give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as you like!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley. Don’t forget to add a squeeze of lime juice for that extra zing! Enjoy this comforting dish like a warm hug in a bowl.
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute the fideo pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta may cook faster or slower than regular pasta.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables! Adding bell peppers, zucchini, or corn will enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic for best results.
Is This Soup Freezable?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Enjoy it within 2-3 months for the best quality. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.