Veggie Orzo Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of vegetables and the delightful texture of orzo pasta. This comforting soup is not just about amazing taste, it’s also packed with nutrients and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome family dinner or a quick lunch option, Veggie Orzo Soup is here to satisfy your cravings while supporting your health goals.
Why make this Veggie Orzo Soup recipe
- Nutrient-packed: Loaded with vegetables, this soup offers vitamins and minerals essential for a balanced diet.
- Quick prep: With a cooking time of under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Meal-prep friendly: Make a big batch and have leftovers for the week.
- Budget-friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, it won’t break the bank.
- Kid-approved: The playful orzo pasta and delicious flavors are a hit with children.
"This is my go-to soup whenever I need something quick and healthy. The kids love it!" – Happy Mom
How to make Veggie Orzo Soup
Making Veggie Orzo Soup is a straightforward process. You’ll need a large pot to cook all your ingredients together, ensuring that flavors blend beautifully. Prepare your vegetables ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience. You can also check out our article on healthy meal prep ideas for more cooking tips.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups spinach or kale
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Feel free to customize your Veggie Orzo Soup by substituting any of the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. For example, if you have bell peppers or green beans, they can easily be added to this delicious mix.
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in garlic and zucchini; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and basil; bring to a boil.
- Stir in the orzo and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
- Add the spinach or kale and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
After making this heartwarming Veggie Orzo Soup, consider trying other delightful recipes from our site, such as Creamy Chicken Casserole.
How to serve Veggie Orzo Soup
Serve your Veggie Orzo Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra flavor boost. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Nutritionally, the orzo adds carbohydrates for energy, making it a well-rounded meal. Don’t forget to check out our tips on healthy meal prep for more options.
How to store
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, or you can microwave it in a microwave-safe container. For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.
Tips to make
- Sauté the vegetables until they are just tender to retain a bit of crunch.
- Avoid overcooking the orzo to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance flavor, like adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Variations
You can easily swap the orzo for other pasta types like quinoa or brown rice for a gluten-free option. Additionally, feel free to mix in different greens, like arugula or Swiss chard, for added nutrients. For some protein, consider adding cooked beans or grilled chicken.
FAQs
Can I freeze Veggie Orzo Soup?
Yes, Veggie Orzo Soup freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
What can I add to Veggie Orzo Soup for extra protein?
You could incorporate cooked beans, chickpeas, or even some shredded chicken for a protein boost.
How long does Veggie Orzo Soup last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, Veggie Orzo Soup can last in the fridge for up to four days.
Is Veggie Orzo Soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based when made with vegetable broth, making it fitting for vegan diets.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned in Veggie Orzo Soup?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can provide a delicious, vibrant flavor, especially in season. Just chop about 2-3 medium-sized tomatoes to replace the canned version.
For more information on the nutritional benefits of vegetables, consider visiting Healthline.
Veggie Orzo Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. We invite you to try this comforting, delicious recipe and share your experiences in the comments! Enjoy every warm spoonful!
Veggie Orzo Soup
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta Can substitute with other pasta types
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes Can use fresh tomatoes as a substitute
- 4 cups vegetable broth Use low-sodium if preferred
- 2 cups spinach or kale Any greens can be used
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in garlic and zucchini; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and basil; bring to a boil.
- Stir in the orzo and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
- Add the spinach or kale and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.