Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

There’s something about a bowl of Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup that offers comfort and warmth. This delightful soup is perfect for chilly days or gatherings with family and friends. Rich in flavor and simple to prepare, it can be enjoyed as a starter or a main dish. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup ready in no time.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil creates a rich and comforting flavor profile.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily add extra veggies or protein to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty texture from the orzo pasta.
• Perfect Leftover Dish: This soup keeps well and tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for making soups as it allows enough space for all ingredients to cook evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 chopped onion
• 2 peeled and chopped carrots
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper

For the Soup

• 28 oz can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Orzo

• 1 cup cooked gluten-free orzo (approximately 1/2 cup uncooked)

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried if necessary)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Make Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
* Stir in the chopped carrots and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Stock

Once your vegetables are softened:
* Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper for a hint of spice.
* Pour in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes along with the chicken stock. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil:
* Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Orzo

After simmering:
* Stir in the heavy cream until fully combined.
* Add cooked orzo pasta gently into the soup. Allow it to heat through for another few minutes.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally:
* Taste your soup and season with salt, black pepper, and torn basil leaves as desired.
* Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!

How to Serve Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your soup experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with slices of crusty bread or baguette for dipping, making each bite satisfying.

Add a Dollop of Cream

• For extra richness, swirl in some heavy cream just before serving to give the soup a creamy finish.

Accompany with Cheese

• Grate some Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top for added flavor and texture.

Include a Side Salad

• A light garden salad can complement the soup well, adding freshness and crunch to your meal.

How to Perfect Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

Perfecting Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup involves attention to detail and a few extra touches. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use high-quality tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for their rich flavor and sweetness, which will enhance the overall taste of the soup.

• Sauté vegetables properly: Cook the onions and carrots until they are soft and fragrant before adding other ingredients; this builds a flavorful base.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat.

• Cook orzo al dente: If cooking the orzo separately, make sure it’s al dente before adding it to the soup; this prevents it from becoming mushy.

• Let it simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for enough time so that flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

Complementing your Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup with side dishes can create a delightful meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter makes for an irresistible pairing with tomato soup.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a refreshing contrast to warm soup.

3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic combo! The gooey melted cheese pairs perfectly when dipped into the soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition alongside the hearty flavors of the soup.

5. Stuffed Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a filling side that complements the tomato base well.

6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers a nutritious balance alongside your comforting bowl of soup.

7. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad can serve as a refreshing addition, offering varied textures in your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong tomatoes: Always opt for crushed San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor. Regular canned tomatoes can lack the richness that San Marzano provides.

• Skipping the sauté step: Don’t rush! Sautéing the onions, carrots, and garlic brings out their flavors. This step is crucial for a tasty soup.

• Overcooking the orzo: Ensure the orzo is cooked just right before adding it to the soup. Overcooked orzo can become mushy and affect the texture of your dish.

• Not seasoning adequately: Taste as you go! Adding salt and pepper at the end can make a big difference in flavor. Adjust according to your preference.

• Forgetting about fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma and taste. If you can’t find fresh basil, dried will work, but use it sparingly as it’s more concentrated.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! You can substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even gluten-free options that suit your preference.

How do I make this soup vegan?

To make Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup vegan, simply omit the heavy cream and replace chicken stock with vegetable broth.

What can I add for extra protein?

You can add shredded chicken, turkey, or even lentils to increase protein content in your Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers based on what you have on hand. This soup is versatile!

Final Thoughts

Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup is a comforting and delicious meal that warms you from the inside out. Its versatility means you can easily adapt it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try and explore different ways to make this delightful dish your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those chilly evenings or gatherings with loved ones. This warm and inviting dish features a rich blend of crushed tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs, all simmered to perfection with tender orzo pasta. Not only is it simple to prepare in about 40 minutes, but its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. With a creamy texture and a burst of flavors, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it hot with crusty bread for an unforgettable meal that warms both heart and soul.

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Ingredients

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• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 chopped onion
• 2 peeled and chopped carrots
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 28 oz can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup cooked gluten-free orzo (approximately 1/2 cup uncooked)
• 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried if necessary)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add chopped carrots and minced garlic; cook for another 3–4 minutes.
2. Add crushed red pepper, crushed tomatoes, and chicken stock. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and cooked orzo; warm through for a few more minutes.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and torn basil leaves before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 10mg