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Easy & Cozy Italian Orzo Spinach Soup

Close-up of a bowl of Italian orzo spinach soup generously topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
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Make this light yet flavorful Italian Orzo Spinach Soup. It is a simple, nourishing recipe perfect for busy weeknights or cozy comfort meals.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice). Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Stir in the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot partially, and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Stir in the fresh spinach. Cook just until the spinach wilts, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  6. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to your preference.
  7. Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a heartier meal, you can add cooked shredded chicken or Italian sausage when you add the broth.
  • If you prefer a thicker broth, cook the orzo for a few extra minutes until it absorbs more liquid.
  • This recipe works well as a make-ahead lunch; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/italian-orzo-spinach-soup-recipe/