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PrintA bright, hearty tomato-based soup with tender orzo pasta and aromatic herbs. Ready in under 40 minutes and perfect for any season.
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced (optional)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
4–5 cups vegetable or chicken broth
3/4 cup dry orzo
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups baby spinach or kale (optional)
Fresh basil, chopped
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, carrot, and celery; cook 6–7 minutes.
Stir in garlic and tomato paste. Cook 1 minute more.
Add crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, stir in orzo, and reduce to simmer. Cook 10–12 minutes.
Add spinach or kale if using, and cook until wilted.
Stir in basil, adjust seasoning, and serve with Parmesan.
For a creamier soup, stir in 1/2 cup cream.
Cook orzo separately to prevent overcooking when storing leftovers.
Add cooked chicken or white beans for protein.