Vegetable Orzo Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a soul-soothing bowl that bursts with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this Vegetable Orzo Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a colorful, comforting medley of tender vegetables, zesty herbs, and tiny pasta pearls swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. Not only does it warm you from the inside out, but it also delivers a perfect balance of textures and nutrients that make every spoonful feel like a cozy hug on a chilly day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each adding a unique layer of taste, texture, and color that makes this Vegetable Orzo Soup Recipe truly special. From silky zucchini to fire-roasted tomatoes, every component plays a deliciously important role.

• 1 tbsp avocado oil: A neutral oil with a high smoke point, perfect for sautéing your veggies without overpowering their flavors.
• ½ heaping cup finely diced yellow onion (1 small onion): Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to the soup.
• ¼ tsp fine sea salt: Helps to build layers of flavor right from the start.
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers that unmistakable punch of savory warmth that elevates the broth.
• ¾ cup diced carrots: Adds a natural sweetness and delightful crunch once cooked.
• ¾ cup chopped celery: Provides freshness and a slight earthiness to the soup’s foundation.
• 1 small zucchini, diced (approx. 1 cup diced): Brings a tender, slightly sweet swell of green to the bowl.
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that enlivens the broth and enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste: Deepens the soup’s color and infuses it with a rich, umami tomato essence.
• 28 oz can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred): Adds a smoky, tangy depth and vibrant red hues.
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or mix of veg broth and water): The soul of the soup that unites all the flavors harmoniously.
• 2 dried bay leaves: Impart subtle earthy and herbal notes during the simmering process.
• 1 cup dry orzo: These tiny pasta pieces add comforting chewiness and soak up all those delicious flavors.
• ½ tsp fine sea salt: Seasoning for the broth to enhance the overall balance.
• 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Adds protein, creaminess, and a slight nuttiness to the soup.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Provides vibrant color, nutrition, and a tender leafy texture that wilts perfectly in the heat.
• 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley: A bright, fresh finish that ties everything together beautifully.
• 1-2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness and lifts the entire soup’s flavor.
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right pinch of warming spice to finish.

How to Make Vegetable Orzo Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming the avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the finely diced yellow onion and sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon of sea salt. Stir often for about 3-4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to bring out that rich, savory aroma without letting it burn. This step lays the flavorful foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Seasoning

Now it’s time to add the diced carrots, chopped celery, and zucchini to your pot. Stir everything together, letting the vegetables mingle with the aromatics for a few minutes. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the veggies and mix well to coat them evenly. Then, stir in the tomato paste — this will add a punch of deep, concentrated tomato flavor as it cooks off for a minute or two.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Toss in the two bay leaves, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes so all those flavors blend together harmoniously, creating a rich and aromatic base for your soup.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo and Chickpeas

After the broth has simmered, stir in the dry orzo, additional ½ teaspoon of sea salt, and rinsed canned chickpeas. Cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender but still slightly firm. This is where the soup starts to thicken and transform into a hearty, satisfying meal.

Step 5: Finish with Greens and Seasoning

Just before serving, stir in the baby spinach, allowing it to wilt gently in the hot broth. Remove the bay leaves, then add the freshly chopped parsley, lemon juice, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. This fresh, final touch adds brightness and color, making your Vegetable Orzo Soup Recipe truly shine.

How to Serve Vegetable Orzo Soup Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your bowl, consider sprinkling some freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few chili flakes can also add an exciting layer of flavor that complements the soup’s comforting base.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every last drop. For a light meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, which contrasts perfectly with the soup’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this soup in charming mini ramekins as an elegant appetizer or ladle it into rustic bread bowls for a cozy, visually impressive presentation. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or seeds on top can deliver an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Vegetable Orzo Soup Recipe into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the soup taste even better the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well if you want to enjoy it later. Just be aware that the orzo might absorb some liquid during freezing and thawing, so consider cooking the orzo fresh when you reheat the soup or add some extra broth if needed before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, simply add a little vegetable broth or water to bring it back to your desired consistency. Avoid high heat to keep the vegetables tender and the flavors balanced.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even small shells work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pastas vary in how quickly they cook.

Is this soup suitable for vegans?

Yes, this Vegetable Orzo Soup Recipe is completely vegan. Just be sure to use vegetable broth and skip any optional garnishes like Parmesan or Greek yogurt, or replace them with plant-based alternatives.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in chopped kale, green beans, peas, or even corn to customize the soup to your liking and whatever’s in season or on hand.

How thick or thin should the soup be?

The soup should have a brothy consistency that’s hearty but not overly thick. The orzo softens and slightly thickens the broth as it cooks, but it should still be spoonable and light enough to enjoy as a satisfying meal.

What’s the best way to add lemon juice?

Add the lemon juice at the very end of cooking to preserve its fresh brightness and to avoid any bitterness that can develop when cooked too long. It really helps lift and brighten all the flavors in the Vegetable Orzo Soup Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Vegetable Orzo Soup Recipe is a comforting, vibrant dish that feels like a warm embrace any time of year. Its wonderful blend of fresh vegetables, tender orzo, and zesty herbs makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. I encourage you to give it a try and see how quickly it becomes one of your favorite go-to soups that you’ll want to make again and again.

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