Description
Mediterranean Orzo Soup is a delightful, nourishing dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. This comforting soup is packed with fresh vegetables and tender orzo pasta, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth infused with aromatic herbs. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, quick lunches, or as a starter for special gatherings. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that’s not only satisfying but also healthy. The best part? It comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Onion
- Carrot
- Celery
- Garlic
- Cherry tomatoes
- Vegetable stock
- Parmesan rind
- Dried oregano
- Dried red chili pepper flakes
- Fresh rosemary
- Dried orzo pasta
- Curly kale
- Sea salt and pepper
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrot, and celery for about 5 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in vegetable stock, Parmesan rind, quartered tomatoes, oregano, red chili flakes, and rosemary; bring to a simmer.
- Add orzo pasta and cook for about 8 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate chopped kale until wilted; check seasoning before serving.
- Adjust consistency with more stock if needed. Serve hot garnished with grated Parmesan and basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: For added flavor, include seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach. This soup can be made ahead of time; flavors intensify after resting overnight.