Fusilli pasta soup is one of those comforting, easy-to-make dishes that seems to satisfy both the soul and the stomach. Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a long day or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this soup has a unique ability to bring warmth and joy to any meal. What makes it even better is how versatile and customizable the recipe is, making it perfect for just about any occasion. The spiraled fusilli pasta holds onto the broth and sauce in such a way that every bite is full of flavor. With hearty vegetables, savory herbs, and a rich broth, this dish is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients.
Now, let’s dive into the specifics of creating this soul-soothing pasta fusilli soup. It’s so easy to make that you might find yourself preparing it on repeat.
Pasta Fusilli Soup Recipe
A hearty bowl of pasta fusilli soup is a blend of comfort, nutrition, and taste. This recipe calls for simple ingredients that come together in a way that’ll leave you coming back for more. The fusilli pasta spirals through the rich broth, allowing each twist to catch a bit of the flavor, while vegetables and seasonings enhance the depth of the dish. Plus, it’s customizable-whether you want to make it vegetarian, add some protein, or turn up the heat with extra spices, this recipe can adapt to suit your preferences.
Ingredients Needed
- Fusilli Pasta: The main star of the dish, fusilli is the perfect shape because it holds onto the broth and sauce well. If you don’t have fusilli, rotini or any short pasta shape will work just as well.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the veggies and providing a subtle richness. You can also use butter for a different flavor profile.
- Carrots: Chopped into small pieces, they add a touch of sweetness and texture to the soup.
- Celery: Adds a crisp, fresh note that balances out the earthiness of the broth and vegetables.
- Onion: Provides that savory base flavor that every soup needs. Yellow onions are great for their mild and slightly sweet flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key to giving the soup an aromatic, flavorful depth.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth: The base of the soup. You can use low-sodium options to control the salt content or make your own broth for a richer taste.
- Tomatoes: Either canned diced tomatoes or fresh tomatoes work well, lending some acidity and color to the soup.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach will wilt down into the soup, giving it a nice green boost and a mild, earthy flavor.
- Herbs (Thyme, Bay Leaves): Thyme pairs beautifully with the vegetables and broth, while bay leaves add a subtle depth of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course! They’re essential for rounding out the flavors.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of cream for extra richness.
Cooking Instructions
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Prep The Ingredients
- Chop the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. If using fresh tomatoes, dice them up as well.
- Set your fusilli pasta aside, as you’ll cook it separately to avoid overcooking in the soup.
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Sauté The Veggies
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and garlic, cooking for another 3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
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Add The Broth And Tomatoes
- Pour in your broth (around 6 cups, depending on how soupy you want it).
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), thyme, and bay leaves. Stir well.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Cook The Fusilli
- While the soup is simmering, cook the fusilli pasta in a separate pot according to package directions (about 8-10 minutes in salted water).
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much of the broth in the soup.
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Final Touches
- Once the vegetables are tender and the broth is flavorful, stir in the cooked fusilli and spinach.
- Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Garnish And Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you like, top with freshly chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of heavy cream for added richness.
Ingredient Insights
- Fusilli Pasta: Fusilli is a corkscrew-shaped pasta that was originally from Southern Italy. Its spiral shape is perfect for holding onto both broth and sauce, making it an ideal choice for soups. The ridges of fusilli allow the liquid to cling, providing a burst of flavor with every bite.
- Carrots & Celery: These two ingredients are the backbone of many soups, thanks to their natural sweetness and crunchy texture. Celery has a slightly peppery taste, which pairs wonderfully with the rich broth, while carrots offer a natural sweetness that balances savory flavors.
- Spinach: Not only does spinach add a beautiful green color to your soup, but it’s also packed with vitamins and minerals like iron and vitamin K. Plus, spinach wilts down quickly, adding volume without weighing the soup down.
- Broth: The choice of broth (vegetable or chicken) will influence the overall flavor profile. Chicken broth gives the soup a deeper, richer taste, while vegetable broth creates a lighter, more neutral base that allows the other ingredients to shine.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since you’re adding the pasta at the end of cooking, be sure to undercook it slightly when boiling separately. It’ll finish cooking in the hot broth, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Customize the Broth: For a richer flavor, consider using homemade broth, or try adding a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar to the soup to bring out the acidity.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic, or a dash of hot sauce in the final steps.
- Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work fine, fresh thyme or parsley can elevate the soup’s aroma and flavor.
- Bulk it Up: Want to add protein? Consider tossing in some cooked chicken, beans, or even sausage for a heartier dish.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Stick with vegetable broth and load up on extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You could also add tofu or tempeh for added protein.
- Meat Lover’s Soup: Brown some ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage in the pot before adding the vegetables and broth. This adds extra flavor and richness to the soup.
- Creamy Fusilli Soup: Stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking for a creamy version. This variation would pair wonderfully with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Italian-Inspired: Add a touch of dried oregano and a few crushed red pepper flakes for a more Italian spin. You can also toss in some fresh basil or a splash of pesto for extra flavor.
Final Words
Pasta fusilli soup is the perfect dish to make when you want something that’s both nourishing and filling. It’s quick to prepare, adaptable, and can be easily customized to suit different dietary preferences. The tender vegetables, hearty fusilli pasta, and savory broth make for a well-balanced and comforting bowl of soup. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or just need something simple yet satisfying, this recipe has got you covered.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Pasta Fusilli Soup?
To make pasta fusilli soup, you will need fusilli pasta, vegetable or chicken broth, olive oil, garlic, onion, carrots, celery, tomatoes, spinach or kale, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
Can I Use Any Type Of Pasta For Pasta Fusilli Soup?
Fusilli is the traditional pasta used in this recipe, but you can substitute it with other short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni if desired.
How Long Should I Cook Fusilli Pasta For The Soup?
Fusilli pasta typically takes around 8-10 minutes to cook. However, it’s important to slightly undercook it by a minute or two, as it will continue cooking in the broth while the soup simmers.
Can I Make Pasta Fusilli Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make the soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting any meat. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or beans for added protein and flavor.
How Can I Make Pasta Fusilli Soup Creamy?
To make the soup creamy, you can add heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk after the broth has simmered. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup to create a thicker texture.
Can I Freeze Pasta Fusilli Soup?
Yes, you can freeze pasta fusilli soup. However, it’s recommended to freeze the soup without the pasta, as pasta tends to absorb too much liquid when stored. Cook the pasta fresh when you reheat the soup.
Can I Add Meat To The Pasta Fusilli Soup?
Yes, you can add meat like chicken, sausage, or beef to the soup for added protein. If using chicken, you can add cooked, shredded chicken or chicken thighs. Sausage can be browned and added to the soup before simmering.
What Vegetables Pair Well With Pasta Fusilli Soup?
Vegetables like carrots, celery, spinach, kale, zucchini, and tomatoes are great additions to pasta fusilli soup. You can also add beans like cannellini or chickpeas for extra texture and protein.
How Do I Store Leftovers Of Pasta Fusilli Soup?
Leftover pasta fusilli soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you plan to store it longer, freezing is a better option (without the pasta).
Can I Make Pasta Fusilli Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, pasta fusilli soup can be made in a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients except for the pasta, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.