This Vegetable Orzo Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tiny pasta, fresh veggies, and flavorful broth, it’s a great choice for chilly days.
I love how colorful this soup looks! It’s so easy to make, and you can toss in whatever veggies you have. Plus, the orzo makes it super filling, perfect for any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing as it adds flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste or cooking method, feel free to use avocado oil or even coconut oil.
Vegetables: The mix of onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, and spinach creates a vibrant soup. If you have other veggies like bell peppers or green beans, they can work wonderfully too!
Diced Tomatoes: They add moisture and a nice tang. You can substitute with fresh chopped tomatoes or even use fire-roasted canned tomatoes for more flavor.
Orzo: This tiny pasta is perfect for soups. If you need a gluten-free option, try rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta.
How Do You Get the Best Flavors from Your Vegetables?
Cooking your vegetables the right way sets a solid foundation for this soup. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery until they begin to soften. This process makes them sweeter and enhances their flavors.
- Heat the olive oil in the pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes.
- Mix in garlic and zucchini for a few more minutes.
This layering technique is key to making sure every bowl is packed with yummy taste!
Vegetable Orzo Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Vegetable Orzo Soup will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 40 minutes from start to soup-filled bowls. Perfect for a quick, comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are starting to soften. This will build a delicious flavor base for your soup!
2. Add More Veggies:
Next, add in the minced garlic and diced zucchini. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. You want everything to meld together beautifully!
3. Combine Liquids and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, oregano, and basil. Give it a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, and once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This step allows the flavors to develop as the vegetables become tender.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook—no one likes mushy pasta in their soup!
5. Final Touches:
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, fold in the fresh spinach or kale until it wilts down. This will add a lovely pop of color and nutrition to your soup.
6. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust any seasonings if needed. Once it’s just right, serve it hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley on top.
Enjoy your hearty, comforting Vegetable Orzo Soup! It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or serving friends and family.
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with any small pasta like ditalini, mini shells, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Soup Heartier?
If you want to add more protein or heartiness, consider adding cooked beans (like white beans or chickpeas) or shredded rotisserie chicken. Simply stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to warm through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The orzo may absorb some of the broth, so when reheating, you might want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to get it back to your desired consistency.
Can I Freeze Vegetable Orzo Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It should keep for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove!
