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–+ servings

Healthy Vegetable Orzo Soup

A quick and nourishing one-pot vegetable soup with orzo, bright lemon, and lots of veggies, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Serving Size 4 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil extra-virgin for finishing, if desired
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced (any color)
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 6 cups vegetable broth low-sodium recommended
  • 1 cup orzo pasta substitute gluten-free orzo or small rice for GF
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparation

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring so it doesn't brown.
  • Add the diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until they begin to soften.
  • Stir in the diced zucchini and chopped green beans. Cook for 3–4 minutes more.
  • Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  • Add the vegetable broth, orzo, oregano, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
  • Simmer gently for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally so the orzo doesn't stick, until the pasta is tender.
  • Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the spinach and lemon juice and cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
  • Taste and season with salt and pepper. Add more lemon if you want extra brightness.
  • Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

This soup can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free orzo or small rice. For a creamier soup, swirl in 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or a splash of cream just before serving. Best served with crusty bread or a crisp green salad.