This Mediterranean Orzo Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that is sure to please everyone at your table. Perfect for cozy evenings or as a nutritious lunch, this soup brings a taste of the Mediterranean right into your home. Its rich broth, combined with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, makes it not only comforting but also packed with flavor. Serve it warm with some crusty bread for a fulfilling meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Mediterranean Orzo Soup can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vegetables and whole grains, it’s a healthy option that keeps you satisfied.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the soup by adding your favorite seasonal vegetables or herbs.
• Great Leftovers: The soup tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of garlic, herbs, and tomatoes creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mediterranean Orzo Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without overcrowding the ingredients.
• Sharp knife: A good knife ensures that chopping vegetables is quick and safe.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements help maintain the flavor balance in your soup.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 3 tbsp (1/4 cup) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium brown/yellow onion – peeled and finely diced
• 1 large carrot – washed, finely diced
• 2 ribs celery – finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic – finely chopped

For the Soup

• 170 g (6 oz) cherry tomatoes – quartered
• 5 cups (1.25 litre) vegetable stock
• 1 piece Parmesan rind – about 7 ½ cm/3 inches
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp dried red chilli pepper flakes
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary – finely chopped

For the Pasta and Greens

• 3/4 cup (150 g) dried orzo/risoni pasta
• 1 1/2 cups curly kale – stems removed – finely chopped and firmly packed

Seasoning and Garnish

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves – finely chopped
• Parmesan cheese – freshly grated
• Extra virgin olive oil – a drizzle

How to Make Mediterranean Orzo Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Add olive oil to a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery; sauté gently for about 5 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally until the onion turns translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add vegetable stock, Parmesan rind, quartered tomatoes, oregano, and red chili flakes to the saucepan. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook Orzo

Once simmering, add orzo pasta to the mixture. Cook for about 8 minutes while stirring regularly to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Incorporate Kale

When the pasta is almost cooked through, stir in finely chopped kale until it wilts. Check seasoning; adjust if necessary.

Step 6: Final Touches

If needed, add extra stock if the soup is too thick. Ladle into bowls after discarding parmesan rind. Drizzle with olive oil and top with grated Parmesan cheese and basil leaves before serving. If not served immediately, remember that it may thicken on standing; more stock can be added if necessary.

How to Serve Mediterranean Orzo Soup

Serving Mediterranean Orzo Soup can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette or sourdough makes a great side to soak up the delicious broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.

With Grated Cheese

• A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a creamy texture and enhances the savory notes of the soup.

As Part of a Salad Platter

• Serve alongside a simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a delightful crunch and complement the soup’s flavors beautifully.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls garnished with olive oil creates an inviting and elegant dining setting.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Orzo Soup

Perfecting Mediterranean Orzo Soup involves attention to detail and some cooking know-how. Here are tips to ensure your soup turns out delightful every time.

• Use quality stock: A rich vegetable stock enhances the overall flavor profile, making your soup more robust.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust sea salt and pepper according to your preference for maximum flavor.

• Add kale at the right time: Incorporate kale when the pasta is nearly done cooking to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.

• Control thickness: If your soup thickens too much, add additional vegetable stock gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Orzo Soup

Pairing side dishes with Mediterranean Orzo Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic-infused olive oil complements the soup beautifully.

2. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and feta adds texture and flavor.

3. Caprese Salad Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers offer a light and tasty bite alongside the soup.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, herbs, and vegetables provide heartiness that pairs well with the broth.

5. Olive Tapenade Crostini: Crisp crostini topped with olive tapenade bring salty richness that matches perfectly with the soup’s flavors.

6. Cucumber Yogurt Dip: A cool dip made from yogurt, cucumber, and mint balances the warm soup nicely while adding freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a comforting bowl of Mediterranean Orzo Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Orzo – Cooking orzo for too long can turn it mushy. Aim for al dente texture by following the package instructions and checking frequently.
• Skipping the Seasoning – Failing to season can result in bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Using Old Ingredients – Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Ensure your stock, herbs, and vegetables are fresh before starting.
• Not Using Enough Broth – A thick soup can be unappealing. If it becomes too thick, add extra vegetable stock to reach your desired consistency.
• Neglecting to Stir – Stirring the pot is crucial to prevent sticking. Regularly stir the soup while it simmers, especially after adding pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Mediterranean Orzo Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Mediterranean Orzo Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe bowls in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat gently on medium heat, stirring often until steaming hot. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mediterranean Orzo Soup.

Can I customize this Mediterranean Orzo Soup?

Yes! You can add different vegetables or proteins like chicken or turkey to enhance this soup’s flavor and nutritional value.

What herbs work well in Mediterranean Orzo Soup?

Besides oregano and rosemary, consider adding thyme or parsley for added freshness and flavor.

Is this Mediterranean Orzo Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! By using vegetable stock and omitting any meat, this hearty soup remains fully vegetarian-friendly.

How do I ensure my soup is flavorful?

Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning gradually with salt, pepper, and herbs for a rich flavor profile.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

While orzo is ideal for this recipe, other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells can also work well.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Orzo Soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough for customization. Whether you prefer adding different veggies or proteins, it’s a perfect meal that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!

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Mediterranean Orzo Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Enjoy a cozy bowl of Mediterranean Orzo Soup filled with fresh vegetables and herbs. Try this comforting recipe today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 tbsp (1/4 cup) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium brown/yellow onion – peeled and finely diced
• 1 large carrot – washed, finely diced
• 2 ribs celery – finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic – finely chopped
• 170 g (6 oz) cherry tomatoes – quartered
• 5 cups (1.25 litre) vegetable stock
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp dried red chilli pepper flakes
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary – finely chopped
• 3/4 cup (150 g) dried orzo/risoni pasta
• 1 1/2 cups curly kale – stems removed – finely chopped and firmly packed
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves – finely chopped
• Extra virgin olive oil – a drizzle

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Instructions

1. Add olive oil to a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery; sauté gently for about 5 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally until the onion turns translucent.
2. Stir in the garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant.
3. Add vegetable stock, quartered tomatoes, oregano, and red chili flakes to the saucepan. Bring everything to a simmer.
4. Once simmering, add orzo pasta to the mixture. Cook for about 8 minutes while stirring regularly to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pan.
5. When the pasta is almost cooked through, stir in finely chopped kale until it wilts. Check seasoning; adjust if necessary.
6. If needed, add extra stock if the soup is too thick. Ladle into bowls after discarding Parmesan rind. Drizzle with olive oil and top with grated Parmesan cheese and basil leaves before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 2 cups)
• Calories: 245
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize the soup with seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini. For added protein, consider incorporating cooked chicken or turkey.