Ina Garten Tomato Orzo Soup Recipe

This Ina Garten Tomato Orzo Soup Recipe is a rich and cozy recipe, which includes crushed tomatoes and orzo pasta. It’s the ultimate comfort food recipe, ready in about 30 minutes.

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Ina Garten Tomato Orzo Soup Recipe Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons good olive oil
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3/4 cup orzo pasta
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
• Optional: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or 1/2 cup heavy cream

How To Make Ina Garten Tomato Orzo Soup

1. Sauté onions and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Add tomatoes and broth: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Cook the orzo: Add orzo pasta to the pot. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
4. Finish with basil and cream/cheese: Stir in chopped fresh basil. Add Parmesan cheese or heavy cream, if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve the soup: Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or more cheese.

Recipe Tips

• Can I make this vegetarian?
  Yes, just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• What kind of orzo should I use?
  Regular or whole wheat orzo both work well; just avoid overcooking.
• How to make it creamy:
  Stir in heavy cream or use a splash of coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Can I add protein?
  Yes, shredded chicken or white beans make great additions.
• How to prevent orzo from sticking:
  Stir the soup frequently during the simmering stage.

What To Serve With Tomato Orzo Soup

This hearty soup pairs well with:

• Grilled cheese sandwiches
• Garlic bread or focaccia
• Roasted vegetables
• Caesar salad or mixed greens
• Toasted crostini with goat cheese

How To Store Tomato Orzo Soup

Refrigerate:
Let cool and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Note: orzo may continue to absorb liquid.

Freeze:
Freeze without orzo if possible for best texture. If frozen with orzo, reheat with added broth.

Tomato Orzo Soup Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~275 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~32g
• Protein: ~7g
• Fat: ~13g
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sugar: ~6g
• Sodium: ~780mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use another pasta besides orzo?
Yes, ditalini, small shells, or couscous can be good substitutes.

Is this soup spicy?
Only slightly if you include the red pepper flakes. Leave them out for a milder flavor.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes, roast and crush about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes for a homemade version.

How to thicken the soup:
Let it simmer uncovered longer, or mash some of the orzo and tomatoes.

Can I add spinach or kale?
Yes, stir in chopped greens during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
• Barefoot Contessa Rosemary White Bean Soup Recipe
• Barefoot Contessa Tomato Soup With Orzo Recipe