This Vegetable Orzo Soup is the ultimate one-pot wonder, brimming with hearty vegetables and tender orzo pasta. The balance of fresh aromatics, tangy tomatoes, and rich vegetable broth creates a warm and satisfying meal perfect for those chilly evenings. A touch of Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar elevates the flavor profile, making every bite irresistible. Not only is this soup a breeze to prepare, but it’s also highly versatile. Swap in your favorite veggies, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice, or top it with freshly grated Parmesan for an extra layer of indulgence. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this dish is a must-try for any soup lover.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 Tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 2 medium potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6-7 cups vegetable broth
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1½ Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 1 tsp celery salt
- ⅓ cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 cup frozen sweet corn
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions:
- In a large Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery with a few pinches of salt, and sauté for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced potatoes, canned tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and celery salt. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the orzo, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Reduce the heat to medium-low, partially cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and the vegetables are tender.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the frozen corn. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in the parsley and optional lemon juice. Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 174 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
A Hearty Bowl of Comfort: Vegetable Orzo Soup
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of warm, homemade soup. Among the myriad of soup recipes, Vegetable Orzo Soup stands out as a wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying dish that ticks all the boxes for a perfect meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a simple dinner, or a make-ahead meal to get you through a busy week, this soup delivers on all fronts. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a bowl of warmth, nourishment, and comfort.
The Story Behind Vegetable Orzo Soup
Vegetable Orzo Soup draws inspiration from Mediterranean and Italian cuisines, where orzo—a small, rice-shaped pasta—is commonly used in soups, salads, and side dishes. The word “orzo” translates to “barley” in Italian due to its resemblance to the grain. Its small size makes it ideal for absorbing flavors, creating a rich and hearty texture in soups.
Traditionally, orzo soups are popular in Greek and Italian households, often paired with fresh vegetables, herbs, and broths. Vegetable Orzo Soup, in particular, is a vegetarian-friendly take on these classic recipes. It combines the simplicity of fresh vegetables with the delightful chewiness of orzo, making it a dish that feels both light and filling.
Why Vegetable Orzo Soup Is a Must-Try
- Nutrient-Dense and Wholesome
One of the greatest advantages of Vegetable Orzo Soup is its nutritional profile. Packed with a variety of vegetables like carrots, celery, potatoes, and corn, this soup provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Each ingredient plays a role in supporting overall health:- Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is essential for eye health and immune function.
- Celery is a low-calorie vegetable loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Potatoes offer a good source of potassium and fiber, which aid in heart health and digestion.
- Corn adds a touch of natural sweetness and is a good source of vitamins and antioxidants.
- Perfect for Any Season
While soups are typically associated with colder months, Vegetable Orzo Soup is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. In the fall and winter, it provides a warming, hearty meal. In spring and summer, it can be lightened up with the addition of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or fresh spinach. You can even serve it with a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing twist during warmer months. - Quick and Easy to Make
This soup is a one-pot wonder, making it incredibly easy to prepare and clean up. With just a few simple steps—sautéing the vegetables, adding the broth and orzo, and letting it simmer—you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal on the table in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a nutritious meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. - Family-Friendly and Customizable
Vegetable Orzo Soup is a hit with both adults and kids. The soft, bite-sized orzo and tender vegetables are easy to eat and appealing to even picky eaters. Plus, it’s highly customizable:- Add protein like cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage for a heartier version.
- Incorporate beans such as chickpeas or white beans for added fiber and plant-based protein.
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for those who like a little heat.
- Make it gluten-free by substituting orzo with gluten-free pasta or even quinoa.
- Great for Meal Prep
This soup stores exceptionally well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply add a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency, as the orzo tends to absorb liquid over time.
The Secret to Perfect Vegetable Orzo Soup
While the recipe itself is simple, there are a few tips and tricks to elevate your Vegetable Orzo Soup from good to great:
- Sauté the Vegetables Properly: Don’t rush the sautéing step. Allowing the onions, carrots, and celery to soften and caramelize slightly enhances the depth of flavor in the soup.
- Season in Layers: Season the soup at each stage of cooking. Add salt when sautéing the vegetables, again after adding the broth, and adjust the seasoning before serving. This layering of flavors results in a well-balanced and delicious soup.
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Orzo cooks quickly and can become mushy if overcooked. Aim for al dente, where the pasta still has a slight bite. This helps maintain the texture and prevents the soup from becoming too thick.
- Add Fresh Herbs at the End: Fresh parsley or basil added just before serving brings a burst of freshness and brightens up the flavors of the soup.
Health Benefits of Vegetable Orzo Soup
- Boosts Immunity
The combination of vegetables, garlic, and herbs provides a range of antioxidants and nutrients that support immune health. Vitamin C from tomatoes and parsley, along with the antibacterial properties of garlic, help the body fight off infections and stay healthy. - Supports Digestive Health
This soup is rich in dietary fiber from vegetables and orzo, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health. Fiber also helps maintain a healthy weight by keeping you full for longer periods. - Low in Calories, High in Flavor
Despite being hearty and filling, Vegetable Orzo Soup is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake. Each serving provides around 174 calories, making it a guilt-free addition to your weekly meal plan.
Serving Suggestions
Vegetable Orzo Soup is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the flavorful broth.
- A fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting, kid-friendly combo.
- Mediterranean flatbread topped with hummus, olives, and feta for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Conclusion
Vegetable Orzo Soup is more than just a soup—it’s a versatile, nutritious, and comforting dish that deserves a place in your kitchen. Its simplicity, adaptability, and rich flavors make it a favorite among home cooks and families alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a cozy dish to enjoy on a chilly day, this soup has you covered.
Print
Vegetable Orzo Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
This Vegetable Orzo Soup is the ultimate one-pot wonder, brimming with hearty vegetables and tender orzo pasta. The balance of fresh aromatics, tangy tomatoes, and rich vegetable broth creates a warm and satisfying meal perfect for those chilly evenings. A touch of Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar elevates the flavor profile, making every bite irresistible. Not only is this soup a breeze to prepare, but it’s also highly versatile. Swap in your favorite veggies, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice, or top it with freshly grated Parmesan for an extra layer of indulgence. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this dish is a must-try for any soup lover.
Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 2 medium potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6–7 cups vegetable broth
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 1 tsp celery salt
- 1/3 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 cup frozen sweet corn
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery with a few pinches of salt, and sauté for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced potatoes, canned tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and celery salt. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the orzo, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Reduce the heat to medium-low, partially cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and the vegetables are tender.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the frozen corn. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in the parsley and optional lemon juice. Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
