**Summery Orzo Soup Preparation Time**
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4
**Introduction**
Bring the light flavors of summer to your dining table with this delightful Summery Orzo Soup. This soup embodies the essence of summer with an array of vibrant vegetables and a refreshing tinge of lemon, making it a perfect choice for a light meal during a hot summer day.
**Why Make This Recipe**
The Summery Orzo Soup makes for a light, refreshing, and nutritious meal ideal for warmer months. It’s filling without being heavy, is packed with vitamins and minerals, and brings in a touch of Mediterranean flavor to your table.
**How to Make Summery Orzo Soup**
**Ingredients**
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
**Directions**
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2 minutes, lightly toasting it.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing it to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Add the chopped zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the veggies are softened.
6. Stir in lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Hot servings, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
**How to Serve Summery Orzo Soup**
Serve this soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. It pairs perfectly with a fresh side salad or a nice piece of crusty bread.
**How to Store Summery Orzo Soup**
Store leftover soup in a refrigerator in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to three days. You can reheat it in a pot over medium heat until hot.
**Tips to Make Summery Orzo Soup**
– Use fresh veggies for maximum flavors. Additionally, you can add other vegetables of your choice like bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach.
– Don’t overcook the orzo. It should still have a bit of a bite to it when you add it into the soup.
**FAQs**
Q1: Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
A1: Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth. It will add a different flavor to your soup.
Q2: Can I add protein to this soup?
A2: Definitely, cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas would make a great protein-packed addition to this soup.
Q3: What can I use as a substitute for orzo?
A3: You can use other small pasta shapes such as ditalini or farfalle if you don’t have orzo on hand.