Spicy Shrimp Tortilla Soup with Zucchini Noodles Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 zucchini
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans petite diced tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

Directions

1. Cut the zucchini in half. Make a lengthwise cut on both sides about 1/4-inch deep. Then, use a spiralizer to cut the zucchini into small noodles.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, red pepper flakes, oregano, and black pepper. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
4. Add the shrimp and the desired amount of zucchini noodles to the pot. Simmer until the shrimp turns pink, approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
5. Once the shrimp is cooked through, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Cook's Note

If you prefer, you can substitute the shrimp with chicken, beef, or pork. For a vegetarian version, replace the shrimp with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving	Amount
Calories	153
Total Fat	2g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	174mg
Sodium	583mg
Total Carbohydrate	10g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	22g
Vitamin C	27mg
Calcium	117mg
Iron	8mg
Potassium	583mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

This Spicy Shrimp Tortilla Soup with Zucchini Noodles is a fresh and healthy twist on a classic Mexican dish. Combining the rich, spicy flavors of shrimp with zucchini noodles, this dish provides a low-carb alternative to traditional tortilla soup, without sacrificing any of the bold flavors.

Origin Story

The origins of tortilla soup can be traced back to Mexico, where the dish has long been a staple of traditional Mexican cuisine. The soup typically consists of a flavorful broth made from tomatoes, chilies, and chicken, with crispy tortilla strips for texture. The use of shrimp in this recipe adds a coastal twist, often seen in dishes from the coastal regions of Mexico, where seafood is abundant. Zucchini noodles, a modern innovation, replace traditional pasta or tortilla strips for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.

Regional Variations

While tortilla soup is popular across Mexico, there are notable regional variations. In central Mexico, the soup is often served with avocado, sour cream, and cheese, while in coastal regions like Baja California, seafood is more common, with fish or shrimp frequently taking the place of chicken. The use of zucchini noodles in this recipe is a more recent adaptation influenced by the rising popularity of low-carb and paleo diets, offering a healthier take on the dish without compromising its depth of flavor.

What Sets It Apart

What makes this version of tortilla soup stand out is the inclusion of zucchini noodles, offering a lighter, more refreshing texture than traditional tortilla strips or pasta. This substitution adds a new twist, transforming the dish into a healthier, low-carb option. The addition of shrimp makes it especially flavorful, with a slightly sweet and tender bite that complements the spicy broth. Unlike other variations that may rely heavily on fried tortilla strips or high-carb ingredients, this recipe focuses on fresh, nutritious ingredients that enhance the overall dish without overloading it with calories or carbs.

Where It's Typically Served

Spicy Shrimp Tortilla Soup with Zucchini Noodles is often served in Mexican restaurants that specialize in seafood, especially in coastal areas where shrimp and other shellfish are abundant. It's typically offered as a starter or a light meal, often accompanied by a side of fresh avocado, lime, and maybe a few tortilla chips for crunch. In many households, this dish is served during cooler months when a warm, spicy soup is especially satisfying, though it can also be enjoyed year-round as a healthy and refreshing option.

Fun Facts

• The zucchini noodle trend was popularized by health-conscious foodies looking for low-carb alternatives to pasta, and it has become a staple in many modern recipes.
• Tortilla soup, or "sopa de tortilla," was once considered a humble peasant dish, but has evolved into a beloved comfort food across Mexico and the world.
• Mexico has an impressive variety of chili peppers, and the heat of this soup can be adjusted by varying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or adding different types of chilies like chipotle for a smoky flavor.
• In Mexico, it's common to serve tortilla soup with a variety of toppings, such as shredded chicken, cheese, or crispy tortilla strips, all of which add texture and flavor to the broth.

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