Name: Mediterranean Orzo Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 medium brown/yellow onion – peeled and finely diced; 1 large carrot – washed, finely diced; 2 ribs celery – finely diced; 3 cloves garlic – finely chopped; 170 g (6 oz) cherry tomatoes – quartered; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp dried red chilli pepper flakes; 1 tsp fresh rosemary – finely chopped; 1 1/2 cups curly kale – stems removed – finely chopped and firmly packed; 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves – finely chopped; 3 tbsp (1/4 cup) extra virgin olive oil; 5 cups (1.25 litre) vegetable stock; 3/4 cup (150 g) dried orzo/risoni pasta; 1 piece Parmesan rind – about 7 ½ cm/3 inches; Parmesan cheese – freshly grated (to serve); sea salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste; extra virgin olive oil – a drizzle

Jump to Recipe

There is something utterly comforting and vibrant about a warm bowl of Mediterranean Orzo Soup. This soul-satisfying dish brings together the hearty textures of orzo pasta, tender kale, and juicy cherry tomatoes in a fragrant broth rich with fresh herbs and the subtle depth of Parmesan rind. Every spoonful bursts with sunshine-inspired flavors, making it an ideal choice for cozy evenings or when you want a simple meal that feels truly special. If you love Mediterranean flavors and wholesome, nourishing ingredients, this soup is bound to become one of your go-to recipes.

Mediterranean Orzo Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Mediterranean Orzo Soup lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each contribute essential elements of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. With pantry staples and fresh herbs, you can easily whip up this delicious soup anytime you crave something warm and nourishing.

Extra virgin olive oil (3 tbsp): Adds a rich, fruity base flavor and helps sauté the vegetables beautifully.

Brown or yellow onion (1 medium, finely diced): Provides a sweet and savory foundation for the soup.
Carrot (1 large, finely diced): Introduces subtle sweetness and a lovely splash of orange color.

Celery (2 ribs, finely diced): Offers a crisp texture and enhances the soup’s aroma.
Garlic (3 cloves, finely chopped): Imparts a warm, savory punch that complements the herbs.

Cherry tomatoes (170 g, quartered): Bursts of juiciness and a natural tang brighten the broth.
Vegetable stock (5 cups): The flavorful liquid base that ties all ingredients together with depth.
Parmesan rind (about 7 ½ cm): Slowly releases umami richness, elevating the soup’s complexity.

Dried oregano (1 tsp): Classic Mediterranean herb that adds earthiness.
Dried red chilli flakes (1/4 tsp): Provides a subtle, warming kick without overpowering.
Fresh rosemary (1 tsp, finely chopped): Offers a piney, fragrant note that enhances the soup’s character.

Dried orzo pasta (3/4 cup): Small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and creates comforting texture.
Curly kale (1 1/2 cups, finely chopped): Adds vibrant greenery and nourishing bite to the soup.
Sea salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and highlighting all flavors.

Fresh basil leaves (2 tbsp, finely chopped): Bright, sweet herbaceous finish for garnish.
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): For a creamy, salty topping that melts gently on the hot soup.
Extra virgin olive oil (a drizzle): A final touch to enrich the soup just before serving.

How to Make Mediterranean Orzo Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery, gently sautéing for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. This step is crucial for building a fragrant base that will infuse every spoonful with mellow sweetness and depth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Next, toss in the finely chopped garlic and sauté for just one minute. Garlic cooks quickly, and letting it gently toast releases its essential oils, making your soup smell fantastic and adding that unmistakable warm richness to the broth.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth with Herbs and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable stock, then add the Parmesan rind, quartered cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, dried red chili flakes, and fresh rosemary. Bring everything to a simmer. The Parmesan rind is a secret superstar here, slowly imparting a lush, savory umami flavor that turns simple soup into something extraordinary.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Once simmering, add the dried orzo pasta to the pot. Stir regularly to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Cook the pasta for about 8 minutes or until it is almost al dente. This creates a tender, slightly chewy texture that makes the soup feel hearty and satisfying.

Step 5: Add Kale and Adjust Seasoning

When the orzo is nearly done, stir in the finely chopped curly kale. Let it wilt gently into the broth, adding fresh green color and a nourishing bite. Taste the soup and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. If the soup feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of extra stock to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve with Final Touches

Ladle the soup into bowls, carefully removing and discarding the Parmesan rind. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top, scatter freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle finely chopped basil leaves for a fragrant, colorful finish that truly brings this Mediterranean Orzo Soup to life.

How to Serve Mediterranean Orzo Soup

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate any soup, and with Mediterranean Orzo Soup, think beyond just Parmesan and basil. A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil adds a silky richness, while a zest of lemon or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper brings brightness right before serving. These small touches transform an everyday meal into a sensory delight.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread, perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth. You could also serve it alongside a simple Greek salad of cucumber, olives, and feta to echo the Mediterranean theme and add a fresh crunch. For something heartier, a side of grilled chicken or roasted vegetables makes a filling, balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests or just make dinner feel special, serve the soup in rustic bowls or pretty soup mugs. Add a small ramekin of extra Parmesan or chili flakes on the side so everyone can customize their bowl. For a fun twist, you could ladle the soup over a bed of sautéed greens or even top it with a soft poached egg for richness and texture variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Mediterranean Orzo Soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it ideal for meal prep or a quick lunch the next day. Just be mindful that the orzo will continue to absorb liquid, so the soup may thicken as it rests.

Freezing

This soup freezes quite well, but because of the orzo and kale, the texture may slightly soften upon reheating. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the kale, then stir in fresh kale when you reheat it. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a little extra vegetable stock or water if the soup has thickened too much. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. Top off with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil right before serving to bring back the fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock?

Absolutely! Chicken stock will give the soup a richer, meatier flavor, which many people love. Just be sure to adjust salt levels accordingly since chicken stock can sometimes be saltier than vegetable stock.

Is there a substitute for Parmesan rind?

If you don’t have a Parmesan rind on hand, you can skip it or add a couple of tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese near the end of cooking for some umami flavor. However, the rind offers a slow-releasing sweetness and depth that’s hard to replicate exactly.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta alternative, such as rice-shaped gluten-free pasta or small quinoa shells. The cooking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on the texture.

How do I make this soup spicier?

If you want more heat, increase the dried red chili flakes according to your preference. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce just before serving to ramp up the spice.

What if I want to make this soup vegan?

To keep things vegan, use vegetable stock, omit the Parmesan rind and cheese, and stir in some nutritional yeast at the end for a cheesy, nutty flavor. This makes a delicious, fully plant-based Mediterranean Orzo Soup that’s just as satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Making Mediterranean Orzo Soup is like inviting a little sunshine into your kitchen and your bowl. Its beautiful balance of fresh herbs, wholesome vegetables, and comforting pasta creates a harmonious dish that nurtures both body and spirit. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do—it’s perfect for any day when you want something simple, delicious, and soul-warming.