Hearty Orzo Vegetable Medley Soup
This comforting Orzo Vegetable Medley Soup is the perfect dish for meal prep, packed with flavor and nutrition. After my recent surgery, I needed something easy to prepare in advance, and this soup delivered! Bursting with vibrant vegetables, tender orzo pasta, and rich, savory broth, it can be frozen in single servings or family-sized portions. Enjoy it as a robust vegetarian option, or add in your choice of cooked beef or chicken for added protein. Perfectly paired with a crusty bread or a side salad, this soup is sure to warm your soul.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef stock or chicken stock
3 (14 ounce cans)
V8 vegetable juice
1 (64 ounce bottle)
diced tomatoes with basil and garlic
1 (14 1/2 ounce can)
onion soup mix
1 (2 3/4 ounce package)
frozen mixed vegetables
1 (20 ounce bag (any variety))
uncooked orzo pasta
8 (ounces)
dried thyme
1/2 (teaspoon)
dried basil
1/2 (teaspoon)
garlic powder
1/2 (teaspoon (not salt))
cooked beef or cooked chicken
2 (cups (optional))
Instructions
1
In a large soup pot or crock pot, combine the beef or chicken stock, V8 vegetable juice, diced tomatoes, and onion soup mix.
2
Add the frozen mixed vegetables and dried herbs (thyme, basil, garlic powder), stirring well to combine.
3
If using, add the leftover cooked beef or cooked chicken to the pot.
4
Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta.
5
For stovetop cooking, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the pasta and vegetables are cooked through.
6
For the crock pot, cover and cook on low for 5-7 hours, until the flavors meld and the veggies are tender.
7
Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Orzo Vegetable Medley Soup?
It is a comforting, nutrient-dense soup featuring orzo pasta, a variety of vegetables, and a rich, savory broth base.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, use vegetable stock instead of beef or chicken stock and omit the optional meat additions.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, you can add two cups of cooked beef or cooked chicken for added protein.
What kind of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 8 ounces of uncooked orzo pasta.
How long does it take to cook on the stovetop?
Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook it in a crock pot on low for 5 to 7 hours until the vegetables are tender.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes, it is an excellent dish for meal prep as it can be easily portioned and stored.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, it can be frozen in single servings or family-sized portions for later use.
What type of juice is used for the broth?
The recipe uses a 64-ounce bottle of V8 vegetable juice to create a rich flavor base.
Do I need to thaw the frozen vegetables before cooking?
No, you can add the frozen mixed vegetables directly into the pot without thawing.
Should the orzo be cooked before adding it to the soup?
No, add the orzo pasta uncooked; it will cook directly in the broth.
What seasonings are used in this soup?
The seasonings include onion soup mix, dried thyme, dried basil, and garlic powder.
Can I substitute the beef stock?
Yes, you can use chicken stock or vegetable stock depending on your preference.
What size cans of stock are required?
The recipe requires three 14-ounce cans of stock.
What kind of canned tomatoes should I buy?
Use one 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes with basil and garlic for extra flavor.
Can I use garlic salt instead of garlic powder?
The recipe specifies garlic powder to avoid making the soup overly salty.
Can I use different types of frozen vegetables?
Yes, any variety of frozen mixed vegetables will work well in this recipe.
What should I serve with this soup?
It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.
How much onion soup mix is needed?
You will need one 2.75-ounce package of onion soup mix.
Can I use other pasta shapes?
While orzo is recommended, you can use other small pasta shapes, though cooking times may vary.
When should I add the cooked meat?
Add the cooked beef or chicken at the beginning of the cooking process with the other ingredients.
Why is V8 juice included in the recipe?
V8 juice provides a complex vegetable base and adds depth to the savory broth.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, but you should generally triple the amount when using fresh herbs compared to dried.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is packed with vibrant vegetables and can be tailored to be a lean, high-protein meal.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot throughout.
What if the soup becomes too thick after sitting?
The orzo may absorb liquid over time; simply add a splash of stock or water when reheating.
Can I add extra fresh vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add fresh vegetables like carrots or celery, but adjust the cook time accordingly.
Is there a specific brand of onion soup mix to use?
Any standard 2.75-ounce package of onion soup mix will work for this recipe.
Can this be made in a pressure cooker?
Yes, it can be made in a pressure cooker by adjusting the manual settings, typically for 3-5 minutes.
How much orzo is required for the full recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of uncooked orzo pasta.