Alphabet Soup

Name: Alphabet Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium); 400 g crushed tomatoes (canned); 1 cup alphabet pasta; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

45 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

Alphabet Soup

A classic and comforting alphabet soup with a rich tomato base and fun pasta shapes - perfect for all ages!

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

45 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Alphabet soup is a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of childhood. This comforting soup features tiny pasta letters swimming in a rich and flavourful tomato broth. It's a dish that’s not only fun to eat but also warms the soul. Perfect for family dinners or a quick lunch, this soup is both easy to make and delightful to serve. The combination of tomatoes and pasta creates a hearty meal that satisfies everyone at the table, especially when the weather turns chilly.

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent garlic from burning.

Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.

Pro tip: Cover the pot to prevent excessive evaporation.

Cook Pasta

Add the alphabet pasta to the pot and stir well. Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.

Pro tip: Check pasta for doneness by tasting a piece.

Season the Soup

Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Pro tip: For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Pro tip: Pair with a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh tomatoes for a more vibrant flavour.
Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is soupe tomate et nouille grand mere?

It refers to a traditional grandmother's style tomato noodle soup, similar to alphabet soup with a tomato base.

What is soupe coquille tomate?

This is a variation of tomato soup featuring shell pasta instead of alphabet pasta.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned. Use about 4 cups of peeled and diced fresh tomatoes.

How long does alphabet pasta take to cook?

Alphabet pasta typically takes about 10 minutes to cook until tender.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra flavour and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your alphabet soup with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. It also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.