When you crave something light yet filling, warm yet refreshing, Shrimp and Noodle Soup is the perfect dish. Whether it's a chilly evening, a quick weeknight dinner, or simply a dish to satisfy your soul, this shrimp and noodle soup offers a delicate balance of flavors that are comforting yet vibrant. Packed with tender shrimp, soft noodles, and aromatic broth, it’s a quick and easy dish you can whip up in no time.
This shrimp noodle soup recipe is flexible, flavorful, and easily customizable with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness, and you’ll see why this soup is a winner in every season!
Shrimp and Noodle Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (leave tails on for extra flavor, if preferred)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups water
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or lime juice for a tangy kick)
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the flavors)
1-2 teaspoons chili paste or sriracha (optional, for heat)
4 oz rice noodles, soba noodles, or egg noodles (depending on your preference)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for garnish)
A handful of spinach, bok choy, or baby kale (optional, for extra greens)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant. This will form the aromatic base for the soup.
Next, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and water, and bring it to a simmer. Add the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), sesame oil, and rice vinegar (or lime juice). Stir to combine. If you like a touch of sweetness to balance the umami flavors, add 1 teaspoon of sugar. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Let the broth simmer for about 5-10 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While the broth is simmering, cook your noodles according to package instructions. Depending on the type of noodles you use, this may take 3-4 minutes (for rice noodles) or a bit longer for other types like soba or egg noodles. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the simmering broth and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them! Once the shrimp is cooked, remove the pot from heat.
If you’re using any leafy greens like spinach, bok choy, or baby kale, you can stir them into the broth at this point and let them wilt for a minute or two.
Step 4: Assemble the Soup
In bowls, divide the cooked noodles evenly. Ladle the broth with shrimp and veggies over the noodles. Make sure to include plenty of broth to soak the noodles.
Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped cilantro, green onions, and a squeeze of lime. If you want a little extra spice, drizzle on some sriracha or chili paste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot, and enjoy your comforting bowl of shrimp and noodle soup! This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, spring rolls, or even a light salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Noodle Soup:
1. Quick and Easy to Make
This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for a busy weeknight or a last-minute meal. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick simmer, you can have a flavorful and satisfying dish ready in no time.
2. Light but Filling
Despite being light and brothy, this soup is surprisingly filling thanks to the shrimp, noodles, and vegetables. It’s the perfect balance of fresh and hearty without being too heavy, so you can enjoy it as a full meal without feeling stuffed.
3. Customizable
One of the best things about this shrimp noodle soup is how easily it can be customized. You can switch up the type of noodles (try rice noodles for a gluten-free version or soba noodles for a more earthy flavor). You can also adjust the spices to suit your taste—add extra chili paste for heat or a little more fish sauce for umami. If you prefer a different protein, swap the shrimp for chicken, tofu, or even crab for a different twist.
4. Healthy and Fresh
This shrimp noodle soup is packed with fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach (if you add them). The broth is light yet full of flavor, and it’s a great way to get a healthy serving of seafood and vegetables in a single bowl. Plus, it’s full of flavor but low on calories, making it a guilt-free comfort food.
5. Comforting, but Not Heavy
If you love soup but don’t want something that’s too rich or creamy, this recipe is perfect. The broth is aromatic and satisfying, without feeling heavy or overly rich. It’s a refreshing yet warming dish that’s perfect for any season.
Serving Suggestions:
This soup can stand alone as a hearty meal, but if you’d like to make it even more filling, pair it with:
Crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Spring rolls with a side of soy dipping sauce or peanut sauce.
A fresh, crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
For an extra kick, serve the soup with a bottle of hot sauce on the side, or add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to taste.
Final Thoughts:
If you’re craving a bowl of something light, flavorful, and satisfying, this Shrimp and Noodle Soup is the way to go. With its savory broth, tender shrimp, and soft noodles, it’s the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. The balance of fresh herbs, umami-rich broth, and spices makes it an easy, versatile dish that will quickly become a family favorite.
So grab your shrimp, your noodles, and a few fresh ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of delicious homemade shrimp and noodle soup!
Pin this recipe for later, or share it with your friends and family who love seafood soups and Asian-inspired dishes!
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