Description
Discover the perfect summer meal with this refreshing Summery Orzo Soup. Bursting with tender orzo pasta, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty lemon finish, this light and healthy soup is ideal for a quick and nutritious lunch or dinner. Perfect for warm weather, it combines the best of fresh produce with a touch of citrus for a delightful and easy-to-make dish.
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
Instructions
- Cook the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables: Add diced carrot and zucchini to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Pour in the Broth and Orzo: Add vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Stir in orzo pasta, reduce heat, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Add the Tomatoes and Spinach: Stir in cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted and tomatoes are heated.
- Finish with Lemon: Add lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Notes
The soup can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 220 kcal