Name: Mediterranean Orzo Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3 tablespoon (¼ cup) extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium brown/yellow onion – peeled and finely diced; 1 large carrot – washed and finely diced; 2 ribs celery – finely diced; 3 cloves garlic – finely chopped; 170 g (6 oz) cherry tomatoes – quartered; 5 cups (1.25 litre) vegetable stock; 1 piece Parmesan rind – about 7 ½ cm/3 inches; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon dried red chilli pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary – finely chopped; ¾ cup (150 g) dried orzo/risoni pasta; 1 ½ cups curly kale – stems removed, finely chopped and firmly packed; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste; 2 tablespoon fresh basil leaves – finely chopped; Parmesan cheese – freshly grated; Extra virgin olive oil – a drizzle

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 24 reviews

If you’re craving a heartwarming meal that feels like a sunny day in the Mediterranean captured in a bowl, this Mediterranean Orzo Soup Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a vibrant medley of tender orzo pasta, nutrient-packed kale, juicy cherry tomatoes, and the subtle, savory depth of Parmesan rind and herbs all simmered in a fragrant vegetable broth. Every spoonful bursts with freshness and comforting flavors, making it perfect for cozy dinners or a nourishing lunch. Trust me, once you make this soup, it’s going to become a go-to recipe for any season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two steps in cooking inside a white pot with gold handles on a black cooking surface, over a white marbled background. In the first step, there is a mix of finely chopped orange carrots, green celery, and white onions lightly cooked inside the pot, with a wooden spoon stirring them on the right side. The second step shows the same pot filled with a brownish broth mixed with green herbs and some red tomato pieces, with the wooden spoon resting inside on the right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple, quality ingredients come together to create something truly special. Each component plays a vital role, from the fruity olive oil enhancing the base flavors, to the orzo giving the soup just the right amount of bite and texture.

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity foundation that elevates the sautéed vegetables.
Brown/yellow onion: Provides sweetness and depth once softened, creating a flavorful aromatic base.
Carrot: Adds a gentle natural sweetness and vibrant orange color for visual appeal.
Celery: Contributes a subtle crunch and fresh earthiness to balance richer elements.
Garlic: Infuses the soup with warm, aromatic undertones that make the dish irresistible.
Cherry tomatoes: Bring a bright burst of tanginess and a touch of juiciness with their quartered goodness.
Vegetable stock: The heart of the soup’s liquid, providing savory depth without overpowering.
Parmesan rind: A secret ingredient that melts into the broth, imparting a subtle umami richness.
Dried oregano: Sprinkles in that classic Mediterranean herbal note, making every sip fragrant.
Dried red chili flakes: Add a gentle kick to awaken your palate without overwhelming the soup.
Fresh rosemary: Finely chopped, it introduces aromatic pine-like nuances for complexity.
Dried orzo pasta: Small and tender, it cooks quickly and gives the soup a satisfying texture.
Curly kale: Packed with nutrients and vibrant green color, it wilts beautifully into the broth.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste and bringing all flavors into perfect harmony.
Fresh basil leaves (for serving): Adds a fresh, peppery brightness just before serving.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated as a luxurious topping that melts slightly into the warm soup.
Extra virgin olive oil (to drizzle): A final drizzle for richness and that quintessential Mediterranean finish.

How to Make Mediterranean Orzo Soup Recipe

Step 1: Gently Sauté the Aromatics

Begin your soup by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, carrot, and celery, and let them cook gently for about five minutes. This softening stage is crucial because it builds the flavor foundation—watch for the onion to turn translucent, signaling the perfect release of natural sweetness and aromas. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking without browning.

Step 2: Infuse with Garlic

Next, introduce the chopped garlic to the pan. Garlic needs just about a minute of cooking to awaken its fragrant oils without turning bitter. This step adds a warm, inviting layer of flavor that will meld beautifully with the rest of the soup.

Step 3: Add Stock, Herbs, and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable stock followed by the Parmesan rind, quartered cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, red chili flakes, and fresh rosemary. This combination simmers together, melding the ingredients into a broth that’s both bright and deeply savory. Bring everything to a gentle simmer—this is where the magic of the Mediterranean Orzo Soup Recipe truly begins.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Once your broth is simmering, stir in the orzo pasta. Cook it for about eight minutes, stirring regularly so it doesn’t stick to the pan. Orzo absorbs flavor beautifully and thickens the soup slightly, making the texture hearty but still silky.

Step 5: Wilt in the Kale

When the pasta is nearly al dente, add the finely chopped kale to the pot. Kale wilts quickly and adds a slightly earthy bitterness and wonderful color contrast to the soup. Allow it to soften for a few minutes, stirring gently to combine.

Step 6: Season and Adjust

Remove the Parmesan rind and take a taste to adjust seasoning. Add sea salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If you find the soup too thick at this point, simply stir in a splash of extra stock for the perfect consistency.

How to Serve Mediterranean Orzo Soup Recipe

A large white pot filled with clear broth soup containing small diced carrots, chopped green herbs, pieces of red tomatoes, and small white rice grains, held above the pot by a metal ladle with a long handle, showing a mix of colorful vegetables and rice in the spoon. The pot sits on a wooden surface with a green basil leaf on the side, and the background is a soft white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes here. A generous grating of Parmesan cheese melts wonderfully on top, adding creaminess and a sharp, savory finish. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh basil leaves for a fresh, peppery note, then finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enrich every bowl.

Side Dishes

This soup stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread or garlic-infused focaccia. A crisp side salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette can complement the comforting warmth of the soup with a refreshing bite. For added protein, consider a side of grilled chicken or falafel to round out your Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, serve the Mediterranean Orzo Soup Recipe in rustic bowls with edible flowers or microgreens sprinkled on top for a pop of color. For a casual lunch, ladle it into mason jars or thermoses to take the Mediterranean sunshine on the go. Layering the soup in clear glass allows everyone to appreciate its vibrant mix of colors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps brilliantly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, but keep in mind the orzo continues to absorb liquid and the soup will thicken. Before serving again, simply stir in some additional vegetable stock or water to bring it back to your desired consistency.

Freezing

If you want to save portions for a future quick meal, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months. When thawing, it’s best to do so overnight in the fridge to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra stock or water as necessary since the orzo thickens the soup as it cools. Alternatively, a microwave can be used but be sure to stir frequently for even heating. This soup warms up beautifully and tastes just as delicious after a day or two.

FAQs

Can I use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock?

Absolutely! Chicken stock works perfectly if you’re not strictly vegetarian. It adds a richer flavor base, but the soup remains just as vibrant with vegetable stock too.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Parmesan rind?

If you don’t have a Parmesan rind on hand, you can omit it, but you might want to add a splash of soy sauce or a vegetarian Parmesan alternative to deepen the umami flavors.

Is there a vegan version of this Mediterranean Orzo Soup Recipe?

Yes, to make it vegan, simply skip the Parmesan rind and cheese toppings. You can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and add extra herbs to maintain that delicious depth.

How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?

The key is to cook the orzo just until al dente and avoid overcooking it. Stir regularly to keep it from sticking, and if you plan to store leftovers, add extra stock when reheating to loosen the texture.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced zucchini, spinach, or even chickpeas for extra heartiness. Just add them in stages depending on their cooking time so everything finishes perfectly together.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Orzo Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Easy enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to share with loved ones, it combines fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create a soup bursting with Mediterranean charm. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new kitchen favorite!