Description
A comforting, Italian-inspired soup featuring tender orzo pasta, vibrant spinach, and a rich tomato-garlic broth. This wholesome bowl of goodness is accented with fragrant herbs and a touch of Parmesan, perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 6 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 3/4 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Build the Broth:
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot, then pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
- Stir in the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
-
Cook the Orzo:
- Add the orzo pasta to the simmering broth.
- Cook for about 8–10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite.
-
Finish with Spinach:
- Stir in the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt, about 2 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth by simmering a few extra minutes before adding the orzo.
- This soup tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded further.
- Adjust seasoning as needed; a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian