Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness? Look no further! This Sopa Recipe with Shells is the perfect solution for a quick, easy, and healthy weeknight dinner. This classic dish is packed with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Let's dive in!
Ingredients: What You'll Need for this Easy Recipe
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Adjust as needed for your family size.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup small pasta shells (or other small pasta shape)
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Cooking this Delicious Dish
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Build the flavor base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the carrots, celery, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the pasta and chickpeas: Once boiling, add the pasta shells and chickpeas. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve and enjoy: Once the sopa is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the sopa into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sopa
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Add some heat: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Boost the veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or green beans.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this a vegetarian-friendly meal.
- Meal prep friendly: This sopa is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.
Variations on this Healthy Meal
- Sopa with Sausage: Add 1 pound of Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled, for a heartier meal.
- Creamy Sopa: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy texture.
- Cheese Sopa: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Fiber: Approximately 8-10g
This Sopa Recipe with Shells is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying homemade dish!