Name: Three Bean Orzo Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced into discs; 10 ounces mushrooms, sliced (or substitute cherry tomatoes or zucchini); 2 cloves garlic, grated; 1½ cups green beans, chopped (or substitute 3 handfuls spinach); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; ½ teaspoon salt (or more to taste); Black pepper, to taste; Chili flakes, a pinch (optional); 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 2 cans beans (drained and rinsed; we use 1 can pinto and 1 can kidney); 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 handful grated parmesan (or lemon zest or both); Optional: lemon squeeze and extra olive oil drizzle

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Introduction

This Three Bean Orzo Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any season. Packed with vegetables, beans, and tender orzo pasta, it’s a nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced into discs
10 ounces mushrooms, sliced (any variety; cherry tomatoes or zucchini can be substituted)
2 cloves garlic, grated
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons tomato paste
6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
2 cans beans, drained and rinsed (e.g., 1 can pinto, 1 can kidney)
1½ cups green beans, chopped (or substitute 3 handfuls spinach)
1 cup orzo pasta
½ teaspoon salt, or more to taste
Black pepper or chili flakes, to taste
1 handful grated parmesan, lemon zest, or both for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot discs, and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables soften.
Step 2: Stir in the grated garlic, dried oregano, a pinch of chili flakes, and tomato paste. Pour in a small splash of broth and cook for 1 minute, stirring, until the tomato paste darkens and blends well.
Step 3: Add the drained beans, broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the chopped green beans and orzo pasta. If you prefer a thinner soup, add a bit more broth. Simmer for another 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the orzo is al dente. Remember the pasta will continue to cook slightly off the heat.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot with a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of olive oil, and a handful of grated parmesan or lemon zest for extra brightness.

Tips & Variations

Use your favorite beans or a mix for varied texture and flavor.
Substitute mushrooms with cherry tomatoes or zucchini for a different twist.
Add spinach instead of green beans for a softer, leafy green option.
For a vegan version, skip the parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
Adjust chili flakes to control the heat level according to your taste.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened. Orzo tends to absorb liquid as it stands, so adding extra broth helps maintain a nice soup consistency.

How to Serve

The image shows a large white deep dish filled with a rich, orange-colored soup that contains visible layers of sliced mushrooms, green beans, kidney beans, and orzo pasta. The soup base appears thick and smooth, with an even distribution of vegetables and beans floating throughout. There are scattered sprinkles of chopped herbs on top, adding small green accents. In the center, a wooden spoon lies partially immersed in the soup, stirring the ingredients. The dish is set on a white marbled surface, with a halved lemon and fresh parsley nearby, enhancing the fresh and vibrant look of the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells work well, but adjust cooking times accordingly as they may vary.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

It can be frozen, but be aware that the orzo may soften further and change texture after thawing. For best texture, consider cooking the orzo fresh when reheating.