If you're searching for a cozy, comforting dish that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds, look no further than this delightful Mushroom Lemon Orzo Soup! Bursting with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and the zesty brightness of fresh lemon, this Italian-inspired recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a hearty, nourishing soup that serves four, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Ready to discover the secret to this delicious dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Slice mushrooms thinly, dice onions finely, and mince garlic cloves.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté diced onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Pour vegetable broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to season the broth.
- Stir in orzo pasta and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer the soup, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking, for about 10-12 minutes or until orzo is tender.
- Remove pot from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup, stirring to incorporate the bright citrus flavor.
- Let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and measure out your ingredients before you start cooking. This will streamline the process and make cooking a breeze!
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh mushrooms and herbs to enhance the flavor of your soup. Varieties like cremini or shiitake can add a rich depth to the dish.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly or add a bit more orzo. For a lighter soup, feel free to add extra broth.
- Enhance the Flavor: Experiment with additional herbs or spices such as rosemary or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only add a pop of color but also elevate the flavor profile of your soup.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your soup with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
