Easy Summery Orzo Soup

Step 1: Make the Soup Base

1. Heat the Oil:

   • Choose the Right Pan: Use a medium-sized saucepan. If you have a heavy-bottomed pot, that works great too, as it helps distribute heat evenly.
   • Add the Oil: Pour in 2 tablespoons of oil and turn the heat to medium. Wait for about 30 seconds for the oil to warm up.

2. Cook the Garlic:

   • Add Garlic: Sprinkle in the minced garlic. Stir it gently with a wooden spoon to ensure even cooking.
   • Watch for Aroma: After about 2 minutes, you should smell the garlic; it should be golden but not brown. If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat to prevent burning.

3. Add Tomato Purée and Spices:

   • Mix Ingredients: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato purée and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. The mixture should start to bubble slightly.
   • Add Sugar: Sprinkle in a pinch of sugar to cut the acidity of the tomatoes.

4. Caramelize the Purée:

   • Cook for 4-5 Minutes: Stir occasionally. You want the purée to darken and thicken slightly. It should cling to the spoon a bit. This step enhances the flavors.

5. Combine Ingredients:

   • Add Vegetables: Pour in the 2 cups of roasted vegetables. If they’re cold, let them warm up in the pan for a minute.
   • Add Stock: Carefully pour in 4 cups of stock. Use a spatula to scrape any caramelized bits off the bottom of the pan; this adds flavor.
   • Add Orzo and Sweetcorn: Stir in 1 cup of orzo and 1 cup of sweetcorn.

6. Simmer:

   • Bring to a Simmer: Increase the heat slightly until it begins to bubble, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
   • Cook for 8-10 Minutes: Stir occasionally. The orzo will absorb some of the liquid and become tender. Check for doneness—aim for al dente, which means it should have a slight bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping

1. Mix Topping Ingredients:
   • In a Small Bowl: Combine 100g of crumbled feta, 1/2 cup of sliced olives, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, and the zest of 1 lemon.
   • Add Pepper: Season the mixture with freshly cracked pepper. This topping adds a burst of flavor when served.

Step 3: Serve the Soup

1. Taste and Adjust:

   • Final Seasoning: Once the orzo is cooked, taste the soup. You can add more pepper, salt, or even a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

2. Ladle into Bowls:

   • Serving: Use a ladle to pour the soup into bowls, filling them generously.

3. Add Topping:

   • Sprinkle Mixture: Scatter the feta and olive topping over each bowl. This adds flavor and a nice contrast in texture.

4. Enjoy:

   • Serve Warm: This soup is best enjoyed warm. You can pair it with crusty bread for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting tomato and orzo soup! Let me know if you have any questions or need more tips!