Bowl of wholesome Mexican Shell Soup garnished with fresh herbs and lime.

Wholesome Mexican Shell Soup: Comfort in Every Spoonful

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Why Make This Recipe

Wholesome Mexican Shell Soup is perfect for anyone looking for a comforting and flavorful dish. It combines healthy ingredients and is easy to prepare. This soup warms you up on chilly days and is ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends. The combination of pasta shells, fresh veggies, and spices makes every spoonful satisfying.

How to Make Wholesome Mexican Shell Soup

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Small Pasta Shells (conchas) (Can substitute with elbow macaroni or small stars.)
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Substitute with olive oil for richer taste.)
  • 1 medium Onion (Use shallots for a milder alternative.)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Garlic powder can be used as an alternative.)
  • 1 medium Carrots (Substitute with peas or bell peppers if preferred.)
  • 1 medium Zucchini (Replace with spinach or green beans if desired.)
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth (Use chicken broth for non-vegetarian versions.)
  • 2 cups Water
  • 1 cup Tomatoes (blended or finely chopped) (Canned tomatoes may be used as an alternative.)
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Can substitute with coriander.)
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • to taste Salt (Adjust to taste.)
  • to taste Pepper (Adjust to taste.)
  • 0.5 bunch Fresh Cilantro (Parsley or epazote can be substituted.)
  • 2 Lime Wedges (Lemon can be used as an alternative.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and zucchini.
  2. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
  3. Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Then add the garlic, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes.
  4. Add Broth and Water: Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Bring to a boil.
  5. Add Pasta and Spices: Once boiling, add the small pasta shells, blended tomatoes, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked.
  7. Finishing Touches: Stir in fresh cilantro and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve with lime wedges on the side.

How to Serve Wholesome Mexican Shell Soup

Serve the soup hot in bowls. You can add extra fresh cilantro on top for garnish and serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick. This hearty dish pairs well with crusty bread or tortilla chips.

How to Store Wholesome Mexican Shell Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.

Tips to Make Wholesome Mexican Shell Soup

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the soup a day in advance, as the flavors blend even better overnight.
  • Add Proteins: For a little extra protein, consider adding beans or shredded chicken.
  • Spice It Up: If you like heat, add some chili powder or diced jalapeños to the soup.

Variation

You can customize this soup by using different vegetables, such as corn or bell peppers. Adding different herbs can also change the flavor profile to your liking.

FAQs

  1. Can I freeze Wholesome Mexican Shell Soup?
    Yes, you can freeze it! Just be aware that pasta may become a bit softer once thawed.

  2. Is this soup gluten-free?
    To make it gluten-free, substitute the pasta with a gluten-free pasta option.

  3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
    Yes! Sauté your vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

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Wholesome Mexican Shell Soup

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  • Author: jurgentukur
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and flavorful Mexican shell soup loaded with nutritious vegetables and spices, perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Small Pasta Shells (conchas)
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
  • 1 medium Onion
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 1 medium Carrot
  • 1 medium Zucchini
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth
  • 2 cups Water
  • 1 cup Tomatoes (blended or finely chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 0.5 bunch Fresh Cilantro
  • 2 Lime Wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and zucchini.
  2. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
  3. Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Then add the garlic, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes.
  4. Add Broth and Water: Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Bring to a boil.
  5. Add Pasta and Spices: Once boiling, add the small pasta shells, blended tomatoes, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked.
  7. Finishing Touches: Stir in fresh cilantro and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

You can add extra proteins like beans or shredded chicken for a heartier dish. For extra heat, consider adding chili powder or diced jalapeños.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican

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