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Healthy Vegetable Orzo Soup

Healthy Vegetable Orzo Soup


  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free (if using gluten-free orzo)

Description

Healthy Vegetable Orzo Soup is a comforting, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal that combines fresh seasonal vegetables, tender orzo pasta, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for any time of year, this soup offers a light yet satisfying way to enjoy your vegetables, suitable for quick lunches or cozy dinners. It is versatile, family-friendly, and adaptable to various dietary preferences.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Wash and chop all vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking; dice the onion and garlic finely to release their aroma when sautéed.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir until translucent and fragrant to build the flavor foundation of the soup.
  3. Cook the Vegetables: Add chopped carrots, celery, and zucchini to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes to soften the vegetables while preserving their crispness and color.
  4. Add Broth and Bring to Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the flavors meld for 10 minutes.
  5. Incorporate Orzo and Spinach: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes until tender. Add fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking to wilt it without overcooking.
  6. Season and Finish: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs such as parsley or basil. Stir well before turning off the heat and serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh vegetable broth for deeper flavor.
  • Do not overcook the orzo to avoid mushiness.
  • Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking and consistent texture.
  • A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the soup’s flavors.
  • Store orzo separately from soup leftovers to maintain texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: vegetable orzo soup, healthy soup, easy soup recipe, vegan soup, gluten-free soup, quick lunch, cozy dinner