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When life gives you lemons, you make Lemon Orzo Soup! This vibrant and zesty soup is a delightful blend of fresh flavors that instantly brightens your day. Picture this: a cozy evening, a warm bowl of soup, and the refreshing essence of lemon bringing a smile to your face. This comforting dish is not just a feast for your taste buds; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl that reminds you of sunny days and good vibes.
A Flavorful Escape
Lemon Orzo Soup is the perfect marriage of tender orzo pasta, hearty vegetables, and the invigorating kick of lemon. It’s light yet satisfying, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this soup is here to rescue you. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, so you can whip it up in no time!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon (more to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Serving Size
Serves: 4–6
Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Make Lemon Orzo Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5–7 minutes. The aroma of sautéing veggies will have your kitchen smelling divine!
Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Garlic is the secret weapon that adds depth to this delightful soup!
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Bring to a Boil
Add the chicken (or vegetable) broth to the pot, bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the orzo pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and cooked through.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Lemon
Once the orzo is ready, stir in the chopped spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you love lemon, feel free to add more juice or zest!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Lemon Orzo Soup hot, and let the bright flavors lift your spirits!
Tips for the Best Lemon Orzo Soup
- Customize It: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or zucchini, or even some cooked chicken for extra protein.
- Make it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just keep in mind that the orzo may absorb some broth as it sits. Add a little extra broth when reheating if needed.
- Adjust the Lemon: The key to this soup is the lemon flavor. Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest according to your taste preferences!
Final Thoughts
Lemon Orzo Soup is not just a dish; it’s a burst of sunshine in every spoonful. With its fresh ingredients and zesty flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, let the warmth of this soup wrap around you, and savor each comforting bite. You deserve it!
