This warm and cozy Mediterranean Orzo Soup is packed with tasty veggies, tender orzo pasta, and a sprinkle of herbs. It’s light yet comforting, perfect for any time of the year!
I love how this soup can warm you up and fill you up without being too heavy. Plus, it’s super quick to make! Who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a lovely flavor and is a staple in Mediterranean cooking. If you’re out, you can use avocado oil or even canola oil as a substitute.
Onion: A medium onion is great for depth of flavor. You can swap it with shallots or green onions if desired, but you’ll lose some sweetness.
Orzo: This tiny pasta fits perfectly in soup. If you don’t have orzo, try small pasta like ditalini or even rice as a substitute, though cooking times may vary.
Greens: I prefer kale for its hearty texture, but spinach works beautifully too. Swiss chard or even frozen peas can be good alternatives if you want to mix it up.
Vegetable Broth: Homemade broth is fantastic, but store-bought works too. If you’re looking for low-sodium options, many brands offer that. Chicken broth can also be a good alternative.
How Do You Make Sure Your Soup is Super Flavorful?
Flavor is key in soup, so here are tips to elevate yours. First, sauté your vegetables adequately to draw out their sweetness. Don’t rush this step; taking your time ensures deeper flavors.
- Cook the onions, carrots, and celery until they’re soft before adding garlic.
- Always adjust seasoning gradually. After adding your lemon juice, taste and add more salt, pepper, or even herbs to enhance the flavor.
- If you like a kick, the crushed red pepper flakes can really brighten your dish.
Ensure you let the soup simmer long enough for flavors to meld together—at least 10-15 minutes. That’s where the magic happens!
Mediterranean 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
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Orzo Soup can be made in about 30 minutes! With 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking, you’ll have a warm and delicious soup ready in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté these ingredients until they’re softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Garlic for Flavor:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing!
3. Combine the Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in the dried oregano, parsley, and season with salt and black pepper.
4. Bring to a Boil:
Turn up the heat until the soup comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the orzo pasta, cooking it until tender—this will take about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add the Greens:
Stir in the chopped kale or spinach into the pot, letting them simmer until they wilt down, which should take another 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish with Lemon:
Once the veggies are cooked, take the soup off the heat and squeeze in the juice of one lemon. This will brighten up all the flavors!
7. Adjust and Serve:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with any additional salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Serve the soup hot, garnished with some extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
This comforting Mediterranean Orzo Soup is not only tasty but also a healthy choice packed with nutrients. Enjoy it with some crusty bread for a full meal that everyone’s sure to love!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Yes, whole wheat orzo is a great substitute! It adds a nuttier flavor and is a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may require a minute or two longer to cook, so check for doneness as you go.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can definitely mix it up! Consider adding zucchini, bell peppers, or even diced potatoes for extra heartiness. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook through properly.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses vegetable broth. Just ensure any optional toppings are plant-based, such as replacing cheese with nutritional yeast or skipping it altogether!
