Orzo Kale Soup

Orzo kale soup is a flavorful, nutritious dish that combines the tenderness of orzo pasta with the hearty, slightly bitter taste of kale, all simmered together in a savory broth. A base of sauteed onions, garlic, and carrots creates a sweet and savory foundation. Tomatoes and white beans are combined with the base and then orzo pasta is added to soak up the rich, seasoned broth. Finally, kale is added and softens as it cooks. This soup is perfect for a cozy meal, offering both warmth and nourishment.

A bowl of orzo kale soup.

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
  • 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable stock
  • 1 ½ cups cooked white beans, or 1(15-ounce) can, drained and rinsed
  • ½ cup whole-wheat orzo
  • 4 cups chopped kale
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots and garlic, sauté for one minute.
  • Add the tomatoes, stock and white beans. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes.
  • Add the orzo, and simmer the soup for about 10 minutes or until the orzo becomes tender. Add the kale, and cook for one to two minutes more. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  • To serve, ladle a generous portion of soup into each bowl.
  • Top with freshly grated parmesan, if using.

**Once finished cooking, pour soup into a blender or use an immersion blender to puree to IDDSI Level 4 (Pureed) or add extra vegetable stock & puree for IDDSI Level 3 (Moderately Thick).

Savor Health is a provider of personalized nutritional solutions designed specifically for cancer patients and their caregivers.

Editor’s Tip: For easier consumption, cut vegetables into smaller than bite size pieces. If you never had orzo before, it will expand a bit when cooked and is slightly bigger than cooked rice grains but not as soft. If you are not sure you will be able to swallow the orzo, cook a little to test it out. If you find it difficult to to eat, break the orzo in half before adding into the soup.

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