Quick Tomato Orzo Soup
Quick Tomato Orzo Soup
This Quick Tomato Orzo Soup is the perfect weeknight meal — light, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes! A comforting blend of tender orzo pasta, rich tomato broth, garlic, and herbs brings Mediterranean warmth to every spoonful. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and packed with fresh taste that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 serves
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chopped onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil (for sautéing)
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Heat oil: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until onions are soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add base: Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Simmer with orzo: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add orzo pasta. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil for a bright, aromatic finish.
Notes
For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
Add cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas for more protein.
Use whole-wheat orzo for a healthier twist.
Leftovers may thicken — simply add more broth or water when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup / Quick Dinner
- Method: One-Pot Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean / Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Why Make This Recipe
Quick Tomato Orzo Soup is a warm and comforting dish that is easy to prepare. It is perfect for busy weeknights or cold days when you want something simple and delicious. The soup is packed with flavor from the tomatoes, herbs, and fresh ingredients, making it satisfying and enjoyable for everyone.
How To Make Quick Tomato Orzo Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until onions are translucent.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Prep Time And Nutrition Facts
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people, and each serving has about 350 calories, 12 grams of protein, and 8 grams of fat.
How To Serve Quick Tomato Orzo Soup
Serve the soup warm in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a nice touch. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
How To Store Quick Tomato Orzo Soup
To store the soup, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water, as the orzo will soak up some of the liquid.
Tips To Make Quick Tomato Orzo Soup
- Use homemade vegetable broth for a fresher taste.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or carrots for extra nutrients.
- For a creamier soup, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Health And Benefits Of This Recipe
Quick Tomato Orzo Soup is a healthy choice because it is low in fat and high in vitamins. The tomatoes provide antioxidants that are good for your heart. The orzo pasta adds some carbohydrates for energy, while the onions and garlic boost your immune system. This soup is balanced, comforting, and nutritious.
Variation (If Any)
You can easily customize this soup. Add cooked chicken for extra protein, or use whole wheat orzo for more fiber. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use any small pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Is this soup gluten-free?
This soup is not gluten-free because of the orzo pasta. However, you can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge or freezer, and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
