Sopa
A comforting and flavorful soup featuring pasta, tomato sauce, and cheddar cheese, perfect for cozy lunches or family dinners with a savory, hearty taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart heavy pan, fry pasta in oil until lightly browned. Stir constantly.
- Add diced onion and crushed garlic, cook until browned.
- Add tomato sauce, chicken broth, and seasonings.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and steam for 20 to 25 minutes without stirring.
- Serve and top with grated Cheddar cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding vegetables like peas or carrots during cooking. If you're out of chicken broth, you can substitute with vegetable broth or water mixed with extra bouillon. Stirring continuously while frying the pasta helps achieve a perfect golden color. For added flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning or parsley before serving. This Sopa pairs beautifully with a side of Butter-Baked Rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sopa hot, garnished with grated Cheddar cheese for a delicious finish. This dish goes well with a simple side salad or crusty bread. It can also be a comforting main course on a chilly day, making it a fantastic choice for family meals or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sopa contains roughly 238 calories, with 4g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2090mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the alphabet, star, or fidello pasta with any small pasta shape such as orzo or ditalini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it's cooked perfectly.
Is it possible to make this Sopa vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bouillon cubes. You can enhance the flavor with additional herbs and spices or even add beans for protein.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onions and garlic. You can also serve the dish with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick.
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).