Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup Small Pasta Shape
• 3 cups Low-Fat Milk
• 10 oz Box Frozen Mixed Vegetables, thawed and drained, or 1 1/2 cups Chopped Fresh Vegetables
• 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1/2 tsp Paprika
• 1 1/2 Tbs Cornstarch
• 6 oz Can Clams, drained
• Salt
• Ground Pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Put the small pasta shape in a large pot of boiling water and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water when done.
2. In a 2-quart saucepan, combine 2 1/2 cups of low-fat milk, mixed vegetables (thawed and drained if using frozen, or chopped fresh vegetables), dried thyme, and paprika.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat until bubbles form around the edge of the milk.
4. In another bowl, stir together the remaining 1/2 cup of low-fat milk and cornstarch until the cornstarch is dissolved.
5. Stir this milk-cornstarch mixture into the soup and heat the soup to simmering, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps.
6. Add the drained clams to the soup and simmer for about 3 minutes until the clams are heated through.
7. Season the soup with salt and ground pepper to taste.

Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Clam and Vegetable Soup!

Here are some variations you can try for this Clam and Vegetable Soup recipe:

1. SEAFOOD MEDLEY SOUP: Instead of just clams, use a seafood medley that includes shrimp, mussels, and squid. You can also use seafood broth instead of low-fat milk for a richer seafood flavor.
2. CREAMY POTATO AND CLAM CHOWDER: Add diced potatoes to the soup along with the vegetables for a heartier and creamier version. You can also use half-and-half or heavy cream for a more indulgent chowder.
3. ASIAN-STYLE CLAM SOUP: Replace the thyme and paprika with Asian spices like ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Add some sliced shiitake mushrooms and baby bok choy for an Asian twist.
4. SPICY CLAM AND VEGETABLE SOUP: Add a kick to the soup by incorporating red pepper flakes or chili powder. You can also use spicy canned clams for an extra burst of heat.
5. MEDITERRANEAN CLAM SOUP: Use Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes. Season the soup with oregano, basil, and a splash of white wine for a Mediterranean flair.
6. VEGETARIAN CLAM AND VEGGIE SOUP: Skip the clams and use vegetable broth instead of milk to make a delicious vegetarian version. Add your favorite vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower for a hearty veggie soup.
7. COCONUT CLAM AND VEGETABLE SOUP: Substitute coconut milk for low-fat milk and add curry paste or curry powder to create a flavorful and creamy coconut clam soup.
8. CORN AND CLAM CHOWDER: Incorporate sweet corn kernels and diced potatoes into the soup, along with the clams, for a hearty and comforting clam chowder variation.
9. HERBED CLAM SOUP: Enhance the flavor with a mix of fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, and dill. Add the herbs towards the end of cooking for a burst of freshness.
10. SMOKY CLAM AND VEGETABLE SOUP: Use smoked clams or smoked seafood to infuse the soup with a delicious smoky flavor. Smoked paprika can also be added for an extra smoky kick.
11. TOMATO AND CLAM SOUP: Introduce diced tomatoes or tomato sauce to create a tomato-based broth. This variation will add a tangy and slightly sweet element to the soup.
12. GREENS AND CLAM SOUP: Add nutritious greens like kale, spinach, or Swiss chard to the soup for extra texture and a boost of vitamins.