Description
This comforting Lemon Orzo Soup is a bright and flavorful dish perfect for any day you need a warm, soothing meal. Made with tender orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon infusion, it combines simple ingredients for a delicious and nourishing bowl of soup that’s easy to prepare in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add broth and orzo: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
- Add lemon flavor: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing well to evenly distribute the bright citrus flavors throughout the soup.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper to your preference. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill. Serve warm for a comforting and refreshing meal.
Notes
- You can use either chicken or vegetable broth depending on your preference or dietary restrictions.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure you use vegetable broth.
- Adjust the lemon juice and zest according to your taste for more or less tanginess.
- Orzo continues to absorb liquid as it sits, so add extra broth or water if reheating to maintain soup consistency.
- This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a full meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
