Cozy up with a serving of Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup, a dish that offers a soothing mix of mild leek and aromatic dill combined with the pleasing chew of orzo pasta. Ideal for chilly days or any time you desire a straightforward, wholesome meal to warm you up, this soup is both comforting and nourishing. Every ingredient adds a distinctive taste that melds together seamlessly, providing a satisfying and richly flavored experience that’s both heartwarming and gratifying.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 3 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 leek (green and white parts), diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 120 g orzo pasta
- 1.5 liters vegetable stock (made from a stock cube and boiling water)
- 3-4 sprigs fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Extra virgin olive oil, for garnish
Instructions:
- Vegetable Prep: Begin by warming the olive oil in a sizable pot set over medium heat. Add the red onion, chopped, and cook until it becomes translucent. Next, incorporate the minced garlic and continue to cook for about one minute, or until you notice a fragrant aroma.
- Add Carrots and Leek: Mix in the diced carrot and leek, sautéing until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle the dried thyme over the vegetables and stir to combine.
- Cook the Orzo: Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the orzo pasta to the pot, reduce the heat, and let it simmer until the orzo is tender, approximately 10 minutes.
- Season the Soup: Once the orzo is cooked, add the chopped fresh dill and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to distribute the herbs and seasonings evenly.
- Finish with Lemon: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the soup and stir well to incorporate the fresh lemon flavor, enhancing the overall zestiness of the dish.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over each serving for a rich, flavorful garnish.
Conclusion:
This Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup offers a delightful way to enjoy a light, yet satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor. The aromatic dill and sharpness of the lemon bring out the natural sweetness of the leeks and carrots, while the orzo adds a lovely heartiness that makes this dish a complete meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling nourished. Enjoy this easy-to-make, delicious soup any day of the week!