Summery Orzo Soup

Name: Summery Orzo Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 large carrot, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1.5 liters vegetable broth; 150g orzo pasta; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 200g cherry tomatoes, halved; 200g spinach leaves; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish; Salt and pepper, to taste

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a quick, healthy meal to brighten up your summer days? Try this Summery Orzo Soup—a light, vibrant, and zesty dish that’s perfect for a warm-weather lunch or dinner. Packed with tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon finish, this soup is as refreshing as it is nutritious.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 large carrot, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1.5 liters vegetable broth

150g orzo pasta

1 lemon, zested and juiced

200g cherry tomatoes, halved

200g spinach leaves

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Cook the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes softened, about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Vegetables

Incorporate the diced carrot and zucchini into the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening and mingling with the aromatics.

Pour in the Broth and Orzo

Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Stir in the orzo pasta, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and cooked through.

Add the Tomatoes and Spinach

Once the orzo is tender, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and spinach leaves. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are heated through.

Finish with Lemon

Add the lemon zest and juice to the soup, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all flavors are well-balanced.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately for a light and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any summer day.

Serving Tips:

Garnish: Enhance the flavor and presentation of your Summery Orzo Soup by garnishing each bowl with fresh basil leaves. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add a touch of richness.

Accompaniments: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add a nice touch if desired.

Temperature: This soup can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for various dining situations. For a refreshing twist, try serving it chilled on particularly hot days.

Portion Control: The recipe yields four servings, but you can easily adjust the quantity based on your needs. If serving as a starter, consider smaller portions.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the soup is completely cooled before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing: While orzo can become mushy when frozen, you can freeze the soup if needed. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove over low heat. Note that the texture of the orzo might change after freezing and thawing.

Reheating: Reheat leftover soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a little vegetable broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, avoid cooking the soup too long to prevent overcooking the vegetables and orzo. Heat just until warmed through to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Related Recipes:

Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, tiny shells, or even couscous. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of pasta you choose. Adjust accordingly to ensure the pasta is tender but not overcooked.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, add the spinach and lemon just before serving to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant. If you plan to freeze it, be aware that the texture of the orzo may change slightly.

Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. Add the cooked protein to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking, just enough to heat through. This will make the soup more filling and turn it into a more substantial meal.

How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

The recipe is already vegetarian, but for a vegan version, ensure that the vegetable broth you use is vegan-friendly. You can also use a plant-based substitute for the olive oil if you prefer, though olive oil is already vegan.

Conclusion:

This Summery Orzo Soup is a delightful and refreshing choice for a quick summer meal. With its tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and zesty lemon flavor, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this soup brings a burst of summer to your table.

📖 Recipe: