This Vegetable Orzo Soup is warm and cozy, packed with colorful veggies and tiny pasta! It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner after a long day.
I love how filling it is without being heavy. Plus, you can throw in any leftover vegetables you have. Waste not, want not, right? 🥕🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil adds a lovely flavor to the soup, but feel free to use avocado oil or coconut oil if you prefer a different taste or are looking for a higher smoke point.
Vegetables: The combination of carrots, celery, and onions is called a mirepoix and it builds a great flavor base. You can easily switch them out! Try zucchini, bell peppers, or any other veggies you’d like.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives the soup a nice texture, but if you want a gluten-free option, use rice or gluten-free pasta instead. They will still make the soup filling!
Fresh Spinach: Spinach is my favorite green to add, but kale or Swiss chard would also work well here. Make sure to chop them if you choose kale for easier eating!
How Do I Make Sure My Vegetables Are Cooked Perfectly?
The key to perfect veggies in your soup is cooking them until they’re just tender. Here’s how:
- Start with the onions and garlic to build a flavor base; they should be soft but not browned.
- Add the carrots and celery next, as they take longer to cook. Aim for about 5 minutes.
- After adding the diced tomatoes and broth, let it boil, then reduce heat so the other vegetables can soften without overcooking.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure a nicely balanced texture in every spoonful!
Vegetable Orzo Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm and hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic.
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, toss in the sliced carrots and celery. Let them cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften up. This step helps to build a flavorful base for your soup.
3. Stir in the Tomatoes:
Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and cook for another couple of minutes. This adds a nice sweetness and acidity to the soup.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried oregano and basil. Give it a good stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Once it starts boiling, add the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the soup is nice and hearty.
6. Add the Spinach:
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for just 1-2 minutes, until it wilts nicely. It adds a lovely color and nutrients to your soup!
7. Season to Taste:
Finally, tuck in some salt and pepper according to your taste. Give it one last stir to combine everything.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for extra flavor. Enjoy your warm and comforting Vegetable Orzo Soup!
This hearty, vibrant soup combines tender orzo pasta with an array of vegetables in a flavorful broth, making a nourishing and delicious meal. Enjoy every spoonful! 🍲
Can I Use Different Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta or rice package instructions.
Is This Soup Freezable?
Yes, you can freeze Vegetable Orzo Soup! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
How Can I Make This Soup Heartier?
For a heartier version, you can add canned beans like cannellini or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber. Alternatively, you can toss in diced potatoes or even bits of cooked chicken for more substance.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This soup is very versatile! Feel free to add in seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans. Just make sure to chop them to similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Always add heartier veggies earlier in the cooking process.
