Description
This Parmesan Pasta Soup is a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired recipe that features tender sautéed vegetables, small pasta, and a creamy Parmesan cheese broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup combines simple ingredients with delicious seasonings to create a warm and satisfying dish that is easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
Soup Base
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese and Garnish
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional 1 minute to release their aroma.
- Simmer Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil to start building the soup base.
- Cook Pasta: Add the small pasta to the boiling broth and cook according to the package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and slightly thickens the broth, creating a creamy texture.
- Season and Finish: Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice if desired for a touch of brightness. Stir well to combine.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a richer soup, add a splash of cream at the end of cooking.
- You can substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth if preferred.
- Enhance flavor by simmering Parmesan rinds in the soup and removing them before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian