Fideo Pasta Soup is a warm, comforting dish made with tiny pasta and flavorful broth. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how quickly this soup comes together—just toss in the ingredients and let them work their magic! Plus, it’s great on chilly days when you want a big hug in a bowl. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fideo Pasta: This thin pasta is essential for the soup’s texture. If you don’t have fideo, you can use broken spaghetti or vermicelli as a substitute. Both options will work well in absorbing the broth.
Oil: I prefer vegetable oil for its neutral flavor, but you can also use olive oil for a slightly richer taste. Just keep in mind that the cooking temperature may change slightly with different oils.
Onion & Garlic: They add great flavor! You can substitute with shallots or even garlic powder if you’re short on fresh garlic. Both options still contribute a nice depth to the soup.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes work best, but if they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes are a great option. They save time and still add that rich flavor.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth is crucial for the soup. You can substitute with homemade broth or even water in a pinch, just add more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How Do I Get My Pasta Perfectly Toasted?
Toasting the pasta is a key step that adds flavor to your soup. Here’s how to do it without burning:
- Heat your oil in the pot first. Make sure it’s hot but not smoking.
- Add the fideo and keep stirring; this ensures even toasting.
- Watch closely! It should take about 3-5 minutes until it’s golden, not brown.
Perfectly toasted pasta creates a nutty flavor that really makes this soup stand out!
How to Make Fideo Pasta Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 ounces fideo pasta (thin vermicelli or broken spaghetti)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, bringing the total time to around 25 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Pasta:
In a medium pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the fideo pasta and stir constantly while it toasts. Keep an eye on it until it turns golden brown, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add Aromatics:
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 2 minutes or until the onion is fragrant and translucent. The aroma at this stage is hard to resist!
3. Incorporate the Tomatoes:
Now, stir in the chopped tomatoes. Cook everything together for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. This is where the soup gets its rich flavor!
4. Spice It Up:
Add the ground cumin, chili powder (if using), and a little salt to enhance the taste. Give it a good stir to combine all the flavors.
5. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and raise the heat to bring everything to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, you’re almost there!
6. Simmer the Soup:
Reduce the heat to low, covering the pot. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the pasta is nice and tender. Make sure to check on it occasionally!
7. Final Touches:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or spices depending on your preference.
8. Serve It Up:
Serve the hot soup in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and accompanied by lime wedges. Squeeze some lime juice into the soup for an extra zing!
This comforting and delightful Fideo Pasta Soup is perfect for any occasion! Enjoy the warmth and flavors with every spoonful! 😊
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you can’t find fideo, you can substitute it with broken spaghetti or vermicelli. Both options will work well in this soup and provide a similar texture!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and keep the recipe as is. It’s a delicious vegetarian option that retains all the flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to thin it out.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in any chopped vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini alongside the tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is tender.
