Imagine a soup that transports you straight to the sun-drenched kitchens of Italy, where every bite is a symphony of vibrant flavors and comforting warmth. Our Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Soup Orzo is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. With its rich, velvety texture and a perfect balance of roasted peppers, tender spinach, and delicate orzo pasta, this recipe is about to become your new obsession. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive starter for your next dinner party, this soup promises to elevate your cooking game and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cups of chopped roasted red peppers, 1 cup of fresh spinach, 1/2 cup of orzo pasta, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, salt and pepper to taste, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers and dried basil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente.
- When the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the pot from heat. If desired, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or leave it chunky for added texture.
- Serve the Roasted Red Pepper Spinach Soup Orzo hot, garnished with additional fresh spinach or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Roasted Red Pepper Perfection: For the most intense flavor, use high-quality jarred roasted red peppers or roast your own peppers for an extra smoky dimension.
- Pasta Precision: Cook the orzo just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when added to the soup.
- Spinach Secrets: Add fresh spinach at the very end of cooking to preserve its bright color and nutritional value.
- Flavor Boosting: For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Texture Variation: Use an immersion blender to create a smooth soup, or keep it chunky for a more rustic feel.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance.
- Garnish Game: Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or some fresh basil leaves for an extra gourmet touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
