If you're searching for a comforting yet refreshing dish that perfectly balances creamy goodness with zesty brightness, look no further than this Creamy Lemon Orzo Soup! This delightful Italian-inspired recipe is not only a breeze to prepare in just 40 minutes, but it also promises to tantalize your taste buds with every spoonful. Imagine the warmth of a hearty soup combined with the invigorating flavor of fresh lemon—it's a match made in culinary heaven! Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish to impress your guests, this creamy orzo soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Read on to discover how to whip up this delicious dish!
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, zesting and juicing the lemon, and measuring out the other ingredients.
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook the orzo for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente).
- Stir in the coconut milk, creating a creamy base for the soup. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add lemon juice and lemon zest to the soup, stirring to incorporate the bright citrus flavors throughout.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove the soup from heat and let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, tangy soup immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop the onion and mince the garlic in advance. You can also zest and juice the lemon ahead of time, so everything is ready to go when you start cooking.
- Cook the Orzo Al Dente: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks. You want it to be tender but still have a slight bite to it. This will ensure the pasta doesn't become mushy once you add the coconut milk.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a richer soup, feel free to add more coconut milk. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount or substitute it with vegetable broth.
- Add Extra Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding in your favorite vegetables such as spinach, kale, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish! It adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that elevates the soup.
- Serve with Bread: Pair your soup with a crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg
