Pasta soup

Here’s a simple and comforting Pasta Soup—light, hearty, and easy to customize 🍲🍝

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Pasta Soup

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini, elbow, or small shells)
• 1–2 cups cooked shredded chicken, sausage, or beans (optional protein)
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

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Instructions

1. Sauté vegetables
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   Cook onion, carrots, and celery until softened (5–7 minutes).
   Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
2. Add broth and tomatoes
   Pour in broth and diced tomatoes (if using). Bring to a boil.
3. Cook pasta
   Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
4. Add protein
   Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or beans and simmer 5 minutes until heated through.
5. Season & serve
   Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
   Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

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Tips & Variations

• Vegetable-packed: Add zucchini, spinach, peas, or green beans.
• Cheesy: Sprinkle Parmesan on top before serving.
• Creamy version: Stir in ½ cup cream or milk at the end.
• Make-ahead: Cook pasta separately and add to soup when reheating to prevent sogginess.

If you want a one-pot hearty dinner version or light vegetable version, I can give that too.