This Italian Orzo Soup is warm and cozy, filled with tiny pasta, veggies, and tasty herbs. It’s perfect for a chilly day and will fill your tummy with happiness!
Making this soup is a breeze! Just throw everything into the pot and let it simmer. You’ll love how the flavors blend together. It’s like a hug in a bowl! 🤗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds rich flavor. You can use vegetable oil or avocado oil if you need a substitute. For a stronger taste, try using flavored olive oil like garlic or chili.
Onion: A small onion is perfect for depth. Shallots or yellow onions work just as well. If you’re in a pinch, even green onions can be used!
Garlic: Minced garlic adds great aroma. If you’re not a garlic fan, you could skip it or use garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon for each clove).
Broth: You can use vegetable or chicken broth. Homemade broth is great if you have it. In a squeeze, water with a bit of soy sauce or seasoning can work as a substitute.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a fun small pasta shape. You can replace it with another small pasta like ditalini or even rice if you prefer.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach gives a nutritious boost. You can swap it for kale or Swiss chard. Frozen spinach can work too—just thaw and drain excess water.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Soup?
Building flavor in your soup is all about layering the ingredients. Start by sautéing the onion so it becomes soft and sweet, which helps develop a rich base. Then, adding garlic right after allows those flavors to pop. Remember not to rush the simmering process after adding the broth; let it come together gently!
- Always start with a clean, warm pot to sauté your onions and garlic.
- Allow the mixture to reach a boil before adding orzo; it helps the pasta cook evenly.
- Last, don’t forget to taste your soup before serving! Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Italian Orzo Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup diced canned tomatoes (with juices)
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Crusty bread (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Italian Orzo Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have it ready in just about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step builds a great flavor base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic for Extra Flavor:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently. This will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma and enhance the soup’s taste.
3. Combine the Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes with their juices, then give everything a good stir to mix it together nicely.
4. Season the Soup:
Add the dried oregano and basil to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Now bring the mixture to a boil—this is where the magic begins!
5. Cook the Orzo:
Once the soup is boiling, add in the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is nice and tender. Remember to stir occasionally!
6. Add the Fresh Spinach:
Now it’s time to stir in the chopped fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted and vibrant.
7. Final Taste Adjustment:
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt or pepper if needed. This step is crucial to ensure maximum flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with some fresh parsley. If you like, sprinkle on some grated Parmesan cheese for extra deliciousness. Serve your soup hot, and enjoy it with some crusty bread for dipping!
Your warm and comforting Italian Orzo Soup is ready to be enjoyed! Buon Appetito!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with any small pasta like ditalini or acini di pepe. If you prefer a gluten-free option, try using rice or quinoa, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian when using vegetable broth. Just be sure your broth is labeled vegetarian or vegan. It’s a great option for everyone!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re expecting to have leftovers, consider cooking the orzo separately and adding it to each bowl when serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. If reheating from frozen, add extra broth to reach your desired consistency as it may thicken when frozen.
