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–+ servings

Orzo Lemon Soup Recipe

Lemon Orzo Soup is a light, healthy, and wholesome dish that comes together in minutes. It boasts delightful Mediterranean flavors in an incredibly easy-to-make recipe!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 onion medium-sized, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots peeled and finely chopped
  • 2 celery ribs finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • Red pepper flakes to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 Bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 bunch of greens like arugula kale, or spinach
  • 1/2 cup milk whole, half and half, or full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 lemon for juice and zest
  • Fresh parsley for serving
  • Parmesan cheese for serving

Method
 

  1. Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  2. Incorporate the butter into the mixture, then stir in the dry orzo pasta. Sauté until the orzo turns golden brown, about 1 to 3 minutes.
  3. Pour in the broth, add the Italian seasoning and bay leaf, and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  4. Mix in the milk and Parmesan cheese, followed by the greens and the lemon juice and zest. Continue to cook for a few minutes until the greens are wilted and the soup is heated through.
  5. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, a grind of black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Enjoy your warm, comforting orzo lemon soup!

Notes

Leftovers: The orzo absorbs the broth when stored in the refrigerator, so you may need to add extra broth or water to thin it out.

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