Clear Vegetable Soup
A light, clear vegetable soup featuring tender carrots, celery, and pasta in a savory chicken broth, perfect for a quick, wholesome appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart saucepan over high heat, combine chicken broth, water, sliced carrot, and sliced celery and bring to a boil.
- Add the macaroni to the boiling mixture.
- Reduce heat to low and cover the saucepan.
- Simmer until the macaroni is cooked, about 20 minutes.
- When serving, sprinkle each bowl with chopped parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or other vegetables like green beans or peas. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also experiment with different types of pasta, but adjust the cooking time according to the pasta used. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Clear Vegetable Soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Barbecue Chicken In Sack or Turkey-Cheddar Noodle Casserole for a more filling dinner. Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving for the best texture, as it can overcook the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clear Vegetable Soup contains roughly 52 calories, with 5g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Just be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the broth as it sits. If making in advance, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before serving to maintain its texture.
What vegetables can I add to this soup?
You can customize this soup by adding vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking. Adding greens like kale or Swiss chard can also boost the nutritional value.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta options. Additionally, ensure the chicken broth is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This makes it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).