This warm and cozy vegetable orzo soup is packed with colorful veggies and tiny pasta. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days!
Honestly, who can resist a soup that makes you feel better with just one spoonful? I always add a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yumminess! 🧀
I love how easy this soup is to whip up. Just toss in your favorite vegetables and orzo, let it simmer, and enjoy. It’s a great way to eat healthy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps cook the veggies. If you’re out, you can use canola or avocado oil instead. They work well without changing the taste too much.
Onion and Garlic: These are key for a delicious base. If you’re not a fan of strong onion flavor, try using shallots instead. You can also swap garlic with garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
Vegetables: Carrots and celery are classic, but feel free to toss in whatever you have—zucchini, bell peppers, or even green beans! This soup is very forgiving.
Diced Tomatoes: If you want a fresh taste, use chopped fresh tomatoes. Just adjust the cooking time, as fresh ones may need a bit longer to soften.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a nice texture, but if you’re gluten-free, try quinoa or a gluten-free pasta instead. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Spinach: Fresh spinach brightens the soup, but you can use kale or Swiss chard. Just remember, they may take a bit longer to cook.
How Do I Get Perfect Flavor in My Soup?
Balancing flavors in your soup can elevate it. Here are some tips:
- Freshness: Always use fresh herbs near the end of cooking for their vibrant flavor. Dried herbs are great when cooking longer but might lose their punch over time.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go. This helps you avoid over-seasoning and lets the natural flavors shine through.
- Simmer Longer: Don’t rush the simmering stage. Letting it simmer for 10+ minutes helps the flavors blend beautifully.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh parsley and cheese right before serving gives a fresh bite and an appealing look.
How to Make Vegetable Orzo Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful vegetable orzo soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30 minutes. Quick, simple, and oh-so-satisfying to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook these for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are nicely softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Goodness:
Next, toss in the can of diced tomatoes (juice included!), dried oregano, and dried basil. Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors well. It should start to smell amazing!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, carefully add the vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering will let all those lovely flavors meld together.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta into the pot and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, this takes about 8-10 minutes, and you want the orzo to be al dente, which means cooked but still a bit firm to the bite.
5. Finish with Spinach:
Just before you finish cooking, stir in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt down nicely.
6. Season to Perfection:
Taste your soup, and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. Don’t be afraid to add a little more if you like a bit more flavor!
7. Dish it Out:
Now it’s time to ladle your delicious soup into bowls. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a little pop of color, and if you like, add a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese!
8. Enjoy:
Serve your warm vegetable orzo soup hot and enjoy the cozy flavors. Perfect for a chilly day or whenever you need a comforting bowl of goodness!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Yes, absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add a nice nutty flavor and is a healthier option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may take a minute or two longer than regular orzo.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Definitely. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove!
How Can I Add More Protein to This Soup?
If you’d like to add protein, consider stirring in some cooked beans (like chickpeas or white beans) or cooked chicken. Simply add them toward the end of cooking to warm through.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This soup is very versatile! Feel free to add veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or even corn. Just chop them similarly so they cook evenly, and add them when you sauté the first vegetables.