Turn leftover pasta into these healthy soups
What's the story
Leftover pasta can be a versatile ingredient, particularly when converted into delicious soups. Rather than letting it go to waste, you can whip up hearty and satisfying meals which are both economical and effortless to prepare. Not only do these recipes utilize leftover pasta, but they also include simple ingredients that you usually have in the kitchen. Here are five unique soup recipes to help you turn your leftover pasta into delightful dishes.
Fresh flavors
Tomato basil pasta soup
Tomato basil pasta soup is a classic option for using leftover pasta. Saute some garlic and onions in olive oil until fragrant. Add canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and a bunch of fresh basil leaves. Let it simmer for 20 minutes before adding your leftover pasta. This soup tastes the best when served hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Hearty mix
Vegetable minestrone with pasta
Vegetable minestrone is a great way to finish off various veggies along with your leftover pasta. Start by cooking diced carrots, celery, and zucchini in olive oil until they soften a bit. Add vegetable broth, canned beans, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning into the pot. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes before folding in the leftover pasta. This healthy soup is ideal for any season.
Rich texture
Creamy spinach pasta soup
For a creamy spinach pasta soup, melt some butter in a pot and add flour to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickens slightly. Stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted before adding vegetable broth and your leftover pasta. Season with salt and pepper as desired. The result is a rich yet light soup that's both comforting and filling.
Protein-packed
Lentil pasta soup delight
Lentil pasta soup mixes protein-rich lentils with your leftover noodles for an energizing meal option. Cook chopped onions, carrots, and garlic together until soft. Then add rinsed lentils along with vegetable stock or water plus seasonings like cumin or coriander powder if preferred, simmering everything together till tender (about 35 minutes). Finally, mix cooked noodles into this hearty concoction just prior to serving time!
Cheesy comfort
Broccoli cheddar pasta soup
Broccoli cheddar soup comes to life when served alongside some extra cooked spaghetti strands! Start by steaming broccoli florets till tender-crisp; in the meantime, melt butter in another saucepan whereupon whisk flour, creating a roux base—gradually incorporating milk thereafter, creating a creamy consistency which welcomes shredded cheddar cheese, melting smoothly therein too! Combine these elements altogether, including those spare spaghetti pieces, yielding the ultimate cheesy comfort bowlful sure to please the palate immensely!