Cozy Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup Recipe for Chilly Evenings

The aroma of simmering tomatoes and fresh herbs fills the air, instantly transporting you to a cozy Italian kitchen. Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup is like a warm hug on a cold day, with flavors that dance together in perfect harmony, making each spoonful a delightful experience.

This soup isn’t just food; it’s a nostalgic journey to family gatherings where laughter and love blend seamlessly with the rich taste of tomatoes and orzo. Ideal for chilly evenings or whenever your heart needs comfort, this dish promises an explosion of flavor that will keep you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients for Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil adds richness and depth to the soup.

• Onion: Dice one medium onion; it provides a sweet base flavor when sautéed.

• Carrots: Two medium carrots, chopped finely, bring sweetness and color to this hearty soup.

• Celery Stalks: Use two celery stalks for that classic aromatic flavor; they add crunch and nutrients.

• Garlic: Four cloves of minced garlic enhance the overall flavor profile with a delicious kick.

• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Two cans of diced tomatoes create the rich base; choose ones with herbs for extra flavor.

• Vegetable Broth: Use about six cups of vegetable broth for depth. Chicken broth works too if you prefer.

• Dried Oregano: One teaspoon adds a Mediterranean flair; fresh is great too if you have it!

• Dried Basil: A teaspoon of dried basil complements the tomatoes beautifully in this recipe.

• Orzo Pasta: One cup of orzo makes the soup hearty; cook it right in the broth for maximum flavor absorption.

• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste but remember, you can always add more later!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Base

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and let it warm up. Toss in diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften—about five minutes—then stir in minced garlic for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in two cans of diced tomatoes along with their juices into the pot. Next, add six cups of vegetable broth. Stir well to combine everything into a lovely mixture.

Step 3: Season It Up

Sprinkle in dried oregano and basil along with salt and pepper to taste. Give it all a good stir as you let it simmer away on low heat—your kitchen will soon smell like heaven!

Step 4: Bring in the Orzo

Once your soup simmers happily for about ten minutes, toss in the orzo pasta. Cook according to package instructions (usually around eight minutes), stirring occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste your masterpiece—a dash more salt or pepper might be needed! If you’re feeling adventurous, add some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs at this point.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Ladle generous portions into bowls and enjoy! Pair with crusty bread or grilled cheese for maximum satisfaction—because we all deserve that extra indulgence sometimes.

Now grab your favorite spoon (I know you have one) and dig into this comforting bowl of Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup! You’ve earned every delicious bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add your diced tomatoes and broth, letting them mingle happily. Toss in the orzo next, cooking until al dente, while stirring in herbs for an aromatic finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s lurking in your fridge—zucchini, spinach, or even kale can work wonders. For extra protein, consider adding shredded chicken or chickpeas. Spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover hearty tomato orzo soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to revive the soup’s creamy texture and prevent it from thickening too much.

There was this one chilly evening when I unexpectedly served my hearty tomato orzo soup to some friends who were feeling under the weather. They left with full bellies and huge smiles—definitely a win!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup?

To make a delicious Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup, you will need key ingredients such as canned diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, or chicken broth, and orzo pasta. Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions add flavor and nutrition. Seasoning is crucial; use garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to enhance the taste. For an extra touch of creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving. These elements combine to create a comforting and hearty soup perfect for any occasion.

How long does it take to prepare Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup?

Preparing Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup is quick and easy. The total time for making this soup typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes gathering and chopping your ingredients before cooking. The actual cooking process takes around 20 to 30 minutes for the vegetables to soften and the orzo to cook perfectly. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I make Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup ahead of time?

You can absolutely make Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup ahead of time! In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. To prepare it in advance, simply follow the recipe as directed. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If necessary, add a little broth or water to maintain the desired consistency.

Is Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup freezes well and is a great option for meal prep! To freeze this soup, allow it to cool completely after cooking, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It’s best used within three months for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove. Note that you might need to add a bit more broth as the orzo may absorb some liquid during freezing.

Conclusion for Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup:

Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup is an easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and warmth with every bite. By using simple ingredients like canned tomatoes and fresh vegetables combined with flavorful herbs, you create a nutritious meal in under an hour. This versatile soup can be prepared ahead of time or frozen for future enjoyment. Whether you serve it on a chilly evening or as part of a family gathering, this hearty soup is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy making this delightful recipe again and again!

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Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup is a soul-warming dish that combines a rich tomato base with tender orzo pasta and fresh vegetables. Perfect for chilly evenings, this comforting soup is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Each spoonful offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes, making it a family favorite for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add diced tomatoes with their juices and vegetable broth; mix well.
3. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually around 8 minutes), stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or grilled cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg