Vegan Orzo Lemon Soup

Why Make This Recipe

Vegan Orzo Lemon Soup is a refreshing and light meal. It is easy to cook and packed with flavor. The bright taste of lemon makes it perfect for any time of the year.

Creamy vegan orzo lemon soup with chickpeas, carrots, and spinach simmered in a cozy broth topped with fresh dill

This soup is also healthy and full of nutrients. It’s a great way to enjoy a warm bowl of comfort food that is plant-based.

How To Make Vegan Orzo Lemon Soup

Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1 cup spinach or kale
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in the vegetable broth and water, and bring to a boil.
  4. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  5. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and spinach or kale.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Creamy vegan orzo lemon soup with chickpeas, carrots, spinach, and fresh dill served in a rustic bowl with lemon garnish

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people and each serving has about 350 calories, with 10 grams of protein and 7 grams of fat.

How To Serve Vegan Orzo Lemon Soup

Serve this soup hot in bowls. You can add extra lemon juice or fresh parsley on top for more flavor. A slice of bread on the side makes a nice addition to the meal.

How To Store Vegan Orzo Lemon Soup

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The soup will keep for about 3 days. You may need to add a little water when reheating, as the orzo may absorb some liquid.

Tips To Make Vegan Orzo Lemon Soup

  • Make sure to check the orzo package for cooking time to avoid overcooking.
  • For a creamier soup, add a splash of coconut milk just before serving.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrients.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

Vegan Orzo Lemon Soup is healthy and nourishing. It contains orzo pasta, which gives you energy, and vegetables that add vitamins and minerals. Spinach or kale adds iron and loads of vitamins. Using vegetable broth keeps the soup light and flavorful without any added fat. The lemon juice helps boost your immune system and adds a zesty taste.

Variation

You can change the soup by adding different vegetables or using other types of pasta. Brown rice or quinoa can also be used instead of orzo for a different texture.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to eat.

Can I freeze Vegan Orzo Lemon Soup?
It’s not recommended to freeze this soup because orzo can become mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Is this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, replace the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or grain.