Vegetable Orzo Soup
his easy Vegetable Orzo Soup is a cozy, wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender vegetables, pasta, and flavorful broth, this one pot soup is simple, budget-friendly, and so comforting. A delicious meatless dinner recipe that’s perfect for spring, fall, or anytime you want a quick homemade soup.
Servings: 6
Calories: 32kcal
Equipment
- stock pot
- knife
- cutting board
- ladle
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 medium carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 celery ribs sliced
- 1 zucchini diced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, with juices (fire-roasted optional)
- 3/4 cup dry orzo pasta
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth low sodium preferred
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice plus zest for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 1 cup canned white beans rinsed and drained
- Optional: Grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add carrots, celery, and zucchini. Sauté for another 4–5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), then cook for 1–2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add orzo, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Stir in spinach and optional white beans. Simmer 1–2 more minutes until spinach wilts.
- Finish with lemon juice and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnished with lemon zest, extra parsley, and optional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Stir orzo occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
- Orzo will continue to absorb broth as the soup sits. Add extra broth when reheating if needed.
- Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky depth of flavor.
- Don’t skip the lemon, it brightens and balances the soup.
Nutrition
Calories: 32kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 206mg | Potassium: 152mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1010IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 0.4mg