Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
Instructions:
1. Prep Work:
- Gather all the ingredients listed above.
- Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and parsley.
- Juice the lemons and zest one lemon.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Seasoning:
- Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to bloom.
5. Simmer:
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
6. Add Orzo:
- Once boiling, add the orzo pasta to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is cooked al dente.
7. Lemon Infusion:
- Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring well to incorporate. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a lemon slice for an extra burst of citrus freshness.
9. Enjoy!
- Serve this vibrant Orzo Lemon Soup piping hot and savor each spoonful of its comforting goodness. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal experience.
10. Storage Tip:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion: Indulge in the bright flavors of this Orzo Lemon Soup and let it uplift your senses with every spoonful. Whether you’re craving a cozy night in or looking for a refreshing meal, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings, and don’t forget to share the joy with your loved ones! Cheers to delicious homemade soups that brighten up any day.
