Imagine a soup so comforting, so bursting with flavor, that it instantly transports you to a cozy Italian kitchen. This Tomato Spinach Orzo Soup is not just another recipe – it's a magical blend of hearty vegetables, tender orzo, and rich, aromatic flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or when you're craving something both nutritious and incredibly delicious, this soup promises to become your new go-to comfort meal that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add vegetable broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the orzo pasta.
- Simmer the soup uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed some of the liquid.
- Add fresh spinach leaves to the pot and stir until they wilt completely, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to further develop.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnishing each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your vegetables and broth can make or break this soup. Choose ripe tomatoes and fresh spinach for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the orzo: Keep a close eye on the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy. It should be al dente and retain a slight bite.
- Layer your flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding other ingredients helps develop a deeper, more complex taste profile.
- Customize your soup: Feel free to add protein like cooked chicken or white beans to make it more filling.
- Cheese matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor – pre-grated cheese simply can't compare.
- Make ahead friendly: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the flavors often improve overnight.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter when serving for a luxurious touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
