Name: Italian Orzo Spinach Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion (diced); 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup diced celery; 3 cloves garlic (peeled and minced); 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock; 1 14-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 1 1/2 cups whole wheat orzo; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 ½ cups diced cooked chicken meat (I used leftover rotisserie chicken meat); 4 cups loosely-packed fresh spinach; Salt and black pepper

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Fall has definitely arrived. You can feel and see it everywhere. Trees are shedding leaves, produce section of supermarkets are full of vibrant fall colors and the temperature has changed considerably. Although some days are still warm and sunny, most days are cold, dark and gloomy. It‘s this kind of day when I long for a bowl of hot and hearty soup. I found this recipe and although it was originally vegetarian, I decided to add some rotisserie chicken leftover from the day before to make the soup more filling and hearty. I also used the leftover chicken bones to flavor the broth. Another thing I love about this recipe is that it is full of vegetables and is healthy. The herbs and spices also give a distinct flavor to the soup. It was a great way to warm up a cold gloomy Monday.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Orzo Spinach Soup

To make the perfect Italian Orzo Spinach Soup, consider the timing of your ingredients. Add the orzo to the pot about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to cook al dente without getting mushy. If you prefer a firmer texture, cook the orzo separately and stir it in just before serving. When it comes to the spinach, add it in the last few minutes of cooking. This way, it retains its vibrant color and nutrients. If you want to enhance the flavor, sauté the onions, garlic, and any other aromatics in olive oil before adding the broth. This step builds a solid flavor base. Adjust the seasoning as you go, tasting at different stages to find the right balance. Fresh herbs can elevate the soup, so consider adding chopped parsley or basil right before serving for a fresh touch.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This soup is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the soup perfectly. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for a cozy meal. If you want to make it a complete dinner, pair it with a simple salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For variations, consider adding different vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers based on what you have on hand. If you prefer a spicier kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This soup is adaptable, so play with the ingredients to make it your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for the orzo?

If you can’t find orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since different grains may require varying amounts of time.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup, but remember to leave out the orzo since it can get mushy upon reheating.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

This soup is great for making ahead! Just prepare everything and store it without the orzo and spinach. When you’re ready to eat, heat it up and add those ingredients for a fresh taste.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also add some grated Parmesan on top for an extra flavor boost.

What are some common mistakes when making this soup?

One common mistake is overcooking the orzo, which can turn it mushy. Make sure to add it at the right time and taste as you go to get that perfect texture.

Italian Orzo Spinach Soup

Liza A

Italian Orzo Spinach Soup combines tender orzo with vibrant veggies in a savory broth, creating a cozy dish that's both hearty and comforting. It's easy to whip up and bursting with flavor!

No ratings yet

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Course Soup

Cuisine Italian

Servings -6 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion diced
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced celery
3 cloves garlic peeled and minced
6 cups chicken or vegetable stock
1 14-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 1/2 cups whole wheat orzo
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 ½ cups diced cooked chicken meat I used leftover rotisserie chicken meat
4 cups loosely-packed fresh spinach
Salt and black pepper

Instructions

Heat oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 4 minutes, until soft.
Add carrots, celery and garlic and cook for 3 more minutes.
Add chicken stock, tomatoes, orzo, thyme, oregano, rosemary and stir to combine.
Bring soup to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
Add chicken and spinach; cook for 1-2 minutes until spinach is bright green and wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm.