Sicilian Potato and Pasta Soup

By charlotteh371

Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 pound Yukon Gold or other waxy potatoes, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
• 3 good-quality vegetable bouillon cubes, dissolved in 1 cup of boiling water
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 cup tubetti or other small pasta
• 1 large tomato, cut into 3/4-inch dice
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped mixed herbs, such as flat-leaf parsley, basil and sage
• Salt

Preparation

Step 1

In a saucepan, cook the onion in the oil over moderate heat, stirring, until just softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add the potatoes, bouillon, crushed pepper and 5 cups of water. Cover and bring to a boil. Stir in the pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir in the tomato and herbs and cook for 1 minute longer. Season with salt and serve with mascarpone.