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Bowl of easy tomato orzo soup garnished with fresh herbs.

Tomato Orzo Soup

A delightful blend of vibrant flavors and heartwarming textures, this Tomato Orzo Soup is perfect for chilly nights and family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil This earthy oil will impart a rich flavor to the base of your soup.
  • 3 cups yellow onions, diced small Sweet and aromatic, they’ll caramelize beautifully.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds an irresistible aroma.
  • 1 quart unsalted chicken stock The heart of the soup.
  • 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano Adds signature tang.
  • 1 pinch saffron threads Introduces delicate flavor and beautiful color.
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt Balances flavors.
  • 12 turns fresh-cracked black pepper Adds depth.
For the Soup Finish
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta Adds a lovely chewy texture.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream For a luscious finish.
For the Croutons
  • 4 to 5 ounces hunk of day-old crusty bread Perfect for making croutons.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil Gives croutons a golden finish.
  • 1 generous pinch salt Enhances flavors.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent and caramel brown for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Add a tablespoon of water if onions brown unevenly.
Cooking
  1. Stir in garlic and bay leaf, cooking for another minute.
  2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, saffron, kosher salt, and black pepper.
  3. Bring to a boil then lower heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
  4. While simmering, bring a small pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo for 6 to 7 minutes until very al dente.
  5. Drain the orzo and set aside.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and let return to a simmer for another 10 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Croutons Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Cut or tear crusty bread into cubes, toss with olive oil and a generous pinch of salt.
  3. Roast on a sheet pan for about 10 minutes, until golden brown.

Notes

Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. For a kick, add red pepper flakes during cooking.