Introduction
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or you just want something light but filling, soup always comes to the rescue. One of the best choices is Vegetable Orzo Soup.
The best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to make this recipe. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a bowl of homemade Vegetable Orzo Soup that tastes just as good (if not better) than anything from a restaurant. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients – Vegetable Orzo Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own pot of Vegetable Orzo Soup:
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Carrots – 2 medium, diced
- Celery – 2 stalks, diced
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Zucchini – 1 medium, chopped
- Tomatoes – 2 large, diced (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
- Baby spinach – 2 cups, fresh
- Orzo pasta – 1 cup
- Vegetable broth – 6 cups
- Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
- Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons (optional, for freshness)
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
Step by Step Process – Vegetable Orzo Soup
Follow these simple steps to make your delicious soup:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash all your vegetables well. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, and tomatoes into small pieces so they cook evenly. Mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Cook the Base
In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5–6 minutes, until the veggies begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Add Zucchini and Tomatoes
Stir in the zucchini and diced tomatoes. Let them cook for about 3–4 minutes so they release their flavors.
Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in 6 cups of vegetable broth. Add dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Cook the Orzo
Add the orzo pasta directly into the boiling soup. Reduce heat slightly and let it cook for about 8–10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 6: Add Spinach
Once the orzo is cooked, add the fresh spinach. Stir and let it wilt in the hot soup. This only takes about 2 minutes.
Step 7: Adjust and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. For extra freshness, squeeze in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Enjoy your warm, healthy, and delicious homemade Vegetable Orzo Soup!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
| Vitamin A | 65% DV |
| Vitamin C | 40% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
| Calcium | 8% DV |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Just replace the orzo pasta with a gluten-free version or use rice or quinoa instead.
Q2: How long can I store this soup?
You can store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. If the orzo absorbs too much liquid, just add a little more broth or water before reheating.
Q3: Can I freeze Vegetable Orzo Soup?
Yes, but it’s better to freeze the soup without the orzo. Cook the orzo separately and add it when you reheat the soup. Otherwise, the pasta might become too soft.
Q4: Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Of course! While this recipe is vegetarian, chicken broth works well if you prefer that flavor.
Q5: What other vegetables can I add?
You can add bell peppers, peas, corn, green beans, or even kale. This recipe is flexible, so use whatever veggies you like or have at home.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Vegetable Orzo Soup is proof that healthy food can also be tasty and satisfying. With its mix of fresh vegetables, light pasta, and flavorful broth, this soup is a complete meal in one bowl.
It’s also very customizable—you can swap out veggies, use different herbs, or even add beans for more protein. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and perfect for meal prep.
So the next time you’re craving something warm, cozy, and full of nutrients, give this Vegetable Orzo Soup recipe a try. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how good it makes you feel.
