Zucchini Pasta Soup
A comforting zucchini pasta soup with tender noodles, fresh tomatoes, and herbs, perfect for a light, flavorful meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute zucchini and onion in butter until tender.
- Add water and noodles; cook until noodles have just become soft.
- Add diced tomatoes, basil, and parsley.
- Remove from heat.
- Reheat just before serving so noodles will not become too soft.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced carrots or bell peppers along with the zucchini and onion. If you don't have egg noodles, any pasta shape will work, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor; if you have basil or parsley growing in your garden, use them instead of dried. This recipe is also great for using up leftover vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this zucchini pasta soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can brighten the dish. It pairs beautifully with Lemon Squares for dessert, making for a delightful meal. Consider offering additional grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the soup has thickened. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can overcook the noodles.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Pasta Soup contains roughly 352 calories, with 16g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. At about 352 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian! To enhance the flavors, consider using vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add more vegetables to increase its nutritional value.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, simply substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. Make sure to check the ingredients of the canned tomatoes for any additives that may contain gluten.
Can I freeze this zucchini pasta soup?
Freezing is not recommended for this soup due to the noodles becoming mushy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the soup base (zucchini, tomatoes, and seasonings) without the noodles and add freshly cooked noodles when you're ready to serve.
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).