Name: Orzo Vegetable Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 medium carrot, diced; 2-3 celery stalks, diced; 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped; 2 cups (100 g) kale, roughly chopped; ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; ¾ cup (150 g) orzo; 6 cups (1.5 liters) vegetable stock; Juice of ½ lemon; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 29 reviews

If you are searching for a comforting, nourishing bowl that bursts with flavor and texture, this Orzo Vegetable Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender orzo swimming in a fragrant vegetable broth, mingling with hearty beans, vibrant kale, and an aromatic blend of herbs and spices. It’s a flavorful hug in a bowl that’s perfect for any day you want something wholesome, warm, and satisfying without a fuss. This soup truly shines in its simplicity and versatility, making it a favorite in my kitchen and sure to become yours too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round dark pot with red handles sits on a black stove with a white marbled surface around it. Inside the pot in the first layer, there are three separate piles of diced vegetables: bright orange carrots at the top, light green celery on the bottom right, and white onions on the bottom left, each forming distinct color blocks. In the second image, the vegetables are mixed and appear softer and translucent, with small light yellow garlic pieces scattered around the center. On top of this mixed layer is a small mound of dark green and brown dried herbs and spices, adding texture and contrast to the colorful vegetables inside the pot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Orzo Vegetable Soup Recipe plays an important role, from building the rich flavor base to adding texture and color. These simple staples come together to create a soup that feels both rustic and elegant, proving that wholesome cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.

Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing vegetables, adding a subtle fruity richness.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down slowly.
Carrot: Offers natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of orange.
Celery: Brings a mild earthiness and crunch to the soup base.
Garlic: Provides a pungent warmth that enhances the overall flavor.
Red chili flakes: Just a pinch to add a gentle, warming heat.
Dried thyme: Delivers a subtle, woodsy aroma that complements the vegetables.
Dried oregano: Introduces a touch of Mediterranean brightness.
Dried basil: Adds fresh herbal notes balancing the flavors beautifully.
Chickpeas: For protein and a hearty, creamy texture.
Cannellini beans: Adds silkiness and bulk, making the soup extra filling.
Orzo: Tiny pasta pearls that soak up the flavors and provide satisfying bite.
Vegetable stock: The soul of the soup, bringing everything together with its rich undertones.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the soup and adds a tangy lift.
Kale: Adds vibrant color, nutrients, and a slight chewiness that’s just perfect.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor.

How to Make Orzo Vegetable Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Start by heating your olive oil in a large stock pot or Dutch oven. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery, cooking them gently over medium heat for about 6 to 7 minutes. This slow softening releases their natural sweetness and builds the base flavor that makes this soup so comforting.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Next, stir in finely chopped garlic along with red chili flakes, dried thyme, oregano, and basil. Cook the mixture for another minute or so until the garlic becomes fragrant and the herbs release their aromas. This step infuses the soup with those warm, irresistible flavors you’ll crave.

Step 3: Combine Beans, Orzo, and Broth

Throw in the chickpeas, cannellini beans, orzo, and pour in the vegetable stock. Stir everything together, bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until the orzo is tender but not mushy—this texture plays a star role in the Orzo Vegetable Soup Recipe.

Step 4: Add Lemon and Kale

Finish by stirring in fresh lemon juice and roughly chopped kale. Simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, just until the kale wilts gracefully, adding a vibrant touch of green and a pleasant slight chew. The lemon juice brightens the soup, lifting all the flavors harmoniously.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This final seasoning step ties everything together creating a beautifully balanced bowl ready to enjoy immediately.

How to Serve Orzo Vegetable Soup Recipe

The image shows a red cooking pot with two different stages of a soup being made, set on a white marbled surface. In the top half, dry orzo pasta in light yellow fills the center of the pot, surrounded by layers of white beans, beige chickpeas, and small diced vegetables in orange and green, while an amber-colored broth is being poured into the pot from a glass measuring cup held by woman’s hand. In the bottom half of the image, the cooked soup is visible with a rich yellowish broth with specks of herbs and softly cooked orange and green vegetables, topped with a large pile of vibrant green kale leaves resting on the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of flair and flavor, consider topping your soup with freshly grated Parmesan, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil. These garnishes brighten the presentation and add layers of texture and flavor that elevate this humble soup.

Side Dishes

Nothing complements this soup better than a crusty piece of rustic bread or a warm baguette. The bread’s crunch and chewiness perfectly contrast with the tender orzo and veggies while providing a wonderful way to soak up every last drop of the delicious broth.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in pretty ceramic bowls for an inviting feel or go rustic with enamel mugs for cozy, informal dinners. For a fresh twist, top each serving with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of pesto. These simple touches can transform the Orzo Vegetable Soup Recipe into a charming centerpiece for any meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve all the vibrant flavors and textures. Just give it a good stir before serving again to redistribute the ingredients evenly.

Freezing

You can freeze the soup to enjoy later on busy days. To maintain the best texture, it’s ideal to freeze the soup without the kale, then add fresh kale when reheating. Freeze in portion-sized containers to make defrosting quick and easy.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid boiling to keep the orzo from becoming too soft.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans in this Orzo Vegetable Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! While chickpeas and cannellini beans are classic choices, you can swap in navy beans, kidney beans, or even lentils depending on what you have on hand or want to experiment with.

Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or use small gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly with different grains.

Can I make this soup in advance for a meal prep?

Definitely. This soup is ideal for meal prepping because its flavors deepen as it sits. Store it in separate portions for easy grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners.

What is the best way to adjust the spice level?

If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red chili flakes. For a spicier kick, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce when serving.

Can I add meat or other proteins?

While this version is a hearty vegetarian option, you can add cooked shredded chicken, turkey, or sausage if you want a meatier dish. Just add it in towards the end of cooking to heat through.

Final Thoughts

This Orzo Vegetable Soup Recipe has all the heart and soul you want in a wholesome meal—full of fresh flavors, nourishing ingredients, and comforting textures. Every spoonful feels like a warm embrace, and its simplicity makes it a joyous recipe to make any day. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own favorite twists to this delicious classic.