Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup to warm your soul. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, quick lunches, or even a gathering with friends. The vibrant flavors of tomatoes and fresh herbs come together beautifully, making it a standout recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup on the table in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of crushed San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil creates a depth of flavor that elevates this dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: This soup allows for creativity with ingredients. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Comforting and Filling: The addition of orzo makes this soup hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Make extra and enjoy the flavors even more as they meld together overnight.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline the cooking process and enhance your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups, allowing for even heat distribution and plenty of space to stir.
• Sharp knife: Ensures easy chopping of your vegetables, making prep time quicker and safer.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup 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
• 28 oz can crushed san marzano tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken stock

For Creaminess:

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

For Flavor:

• 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

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

How to Make Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped carrots and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the carrots soften slightly.

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in the crushed red pepper followed by the crushed San Marzano tomatoes. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Stock

Pour in the chicken stock and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

Step 5: Add Orzo and Cream

Add the cooked orzo into the pot along with heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Finish with Basil

Just before serving, stir in fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish. Enjoy your delightful bowl of Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup!

How to Serve Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

Serving Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup can elevate your dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this comforting dish.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Enjoy the soup with a slice of crusty sourdough or baguette for dipping. The bread soaks up the flavors beautifully.

Add a Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for freshness.

Top with Cheese

• Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top just before serving. The melted cheese adds creaminess and enhances flavor.

Serve with Grilled Cheese

• A classic grilled cheese sandwich makes for a perfect companion. Use your favorite bread and cheese for an indulgent treat.

Offer Extra Toppings

• Set out bowls of chopped fresh herbs, croutons, or red pepper flakes. This allows guests to customize their bowls.

How to Perfect Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

To ensure your Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use quality tomatoes – Opt for San Marzano tomatoes for their rich flavor. They greatly enhance the taste of your soup.

• Adjust seasoning – Taste as you go! Season with salt and black pepper to bring out all the flavors in the soup.

• Cook orzo separately – Prepare orzo separately to avoid it becoming mushy in the soup. Combine it just before serving.

• Experiment with herbs – Fresh basil adds wonderful aroma, but feel free to try oregano or thyme for a different twist.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

Pairing your Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy and buttery, garlic bread is always a hit. It’s perfect for dipping into the soup.

2. Caprese Salad – This refreshing salad features ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, brightening up your meal.

3. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds depth and nutrition to your dinner.

4. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice make for a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with tomato soup.

5. Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta drizzled with olive oil is comforting and complements the flavors of tomato soup nicely.

6. Crispy Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges provide crunch and can easily be dipped into your hearty soup.

7. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad featuring vegetables and a tangy dressing offers a nice contrast in temperature and texture.

8. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad adds freshness that balances the richness of the soup while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common pitfalls when making Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the aromatics: Not sautéing the onion, garlic, and carrots can lead to a bland soup. Always cook these ingredients first to build flavor.

• Using low-quality tomatoes: Cheap canned tomatoes can ruin your soup. Opt for high-quality crushed San Marzano tomatoes for the best taste.

• Overcooking the orzo: Adding uncooked orzo directly into the soup can lead to mushiness. Cook it separately and add it just before serving.

• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning your soup can make it taste flat. Be sure to taste and adjust with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.

• Ignoring fresh herbs: Skipping fresh herbs means missing out on vibrant flavors. Always add fresh basil at the end for a burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup:

What is Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup?

Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup is a comforting blend of crushed tomatoes, vegetables, orzo pasta, and spices that warms you up.

Can I customize my Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to tailor the soup to your liking.

How do I make my Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup spicier?

To spice things up, simply increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add diced jalapeños while cooking.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock?

Yes, using vegetable broth is an excellent way to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly while maintaining great flavor.

Final Thoughts

Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy nights or meal prep!

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Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the warmth and comfort of a bowl of Hearty Tomato Orzo Soup, perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to quick lunches. This delightful dish combines the vibrant flavors of crushed San Marzano tomatoes with fresh basil and hearty orzo pasta, creating a rich and satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this flavorful soup in no time. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Enjoy the deliciousness today!

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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 cup cooked gluten-free orzo
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in chopped carrots and minced garlic; cook for about 5 minutes until carrots soften.
3. Add crushed red pepper and crushed San Marzano tomatoes; simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken stock, bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for another 15 minutes.
5. Mix in cooked orzo and heavy cream; season with salt and black pepper.
6. Finish by stirring in fresh basil before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg