Cozy Alphabet Soup (That Actually Tastes Incredible)

• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 2 medium onions, finely diced
• 4 medium carrots, small dice
• 4 celery stalks, small dice
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 12 cups chicken broth (or good vegetable broth)
• 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes
• 8 oz (1 1/3 cups) alphabet pasta
• 2 tsp coarse kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/8 tsp sugar (a true pinch)
• Optional additions if you want it heartier
• 1-2 cups cooked chicken
• A handful of chopped spinach or parsley at the end
• Optional: a small can of drained cooked beans and/or 1/2 cup frozen peas

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery and 1 tsp (5ml) salt. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until completely soft and glossy but not browned. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it darkens slightly and smells sweet.

2. 2

   Add the broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), dried thyme, black pepper, and remaining 1 tsp (5ml) salt. Bring to a gentle boil.

3. 3

   Add the alphabet pasta, reduce to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes, until just tender, stirring occasionally so the letters don't stick together. Add the optional beans in the last 3 minutes of cooking. Add the frozen peas, if using, at the very end.

4. 4

   Turn off the heat. Stir in 1 tbsp (15ml) butter and ⅛ tsp (0.6ml) sugar. Taste and adjust the salt if needed. If using spinach or chicken, add it now and let it warm through.