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Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup

Comforting Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup for Busy Days

This Easy Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup is a quick and nourishing vegetarian meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Soup
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil for a lighter option.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Yellow onion works as a substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is recommended; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 medium Carrot Any root vegetable can be substituted.
  • 1 medium Leek Green onions can be an alternative if leeks are unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Fresh thyme can be used instead.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Monitor at end cooking time to prevent mushiness; substitute with gluten-free orzo for gluten-free version.
  • 6.33 cups Vegetable Broth Homemade or low-sodium versions are recommended for better control of salt levels.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Dill Parsley can be used as a milder alternative.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Lime juice can be used for a different acidity profile.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped red onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and sliced leek. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for about 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until they soften and become fragrant, creating a beautifully colorful base for your Easy Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup.
  2. While the vegetables are sautéing, dissolve a vegetable broth cube in 6 1/3 cups of boiling water to create a rich broth. Stir until fully dissolved, then set the hot broth aside.
  3. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the prepared vegetable broth and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cooking for about 12 minutes.
  4. After simmering, season the Easy Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup with salt and pepper to taste. Just before serving, stir in the juice of half a lemon and a generous handful of freshly chopped dill.
  5. Ladle the warm soup into bowls, making sure each serving is laden with orzo and vibrant vegetables. Drizzle a little olive oil on top for an extra touch, and garnish with more fresh dill if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 10gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For creative add-ins, consider grilled chicken, chickpeas, or roasted veggies to enhance nutrition and flavor.

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