Green Olive and Chickpea Orzo Soup Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a soul-warming, flavor-packed soup that brings something delightfully different to the table, look no further than this Green Olive and Chickpea Orzo Soup Recipe. This dish perfectly balances hearty chickpeas and tender orzo with the vibrant pop of green olives and bright herbs, all wrapped up in a creamy, comforting broth. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, ideal for lunch or dinner, and easy enough to whip up any day of the week when you want something nourishing yet exciting. I love sharing this recipe because it never fails to surprise and satisfy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Green Olive and Chickpea Orzo Soup Recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, each serving a clear purpose in building layers of flavor and texture. From the aromatic herbs to the creamy coconut cream, these elements come together to create a soup that’s as wholesome as it is vibrant.

• Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing, it adds subtle richness and depth to the base flavors.
• Large onion (diced): Adds sweetness and a tender base that melts into the broth.
• Garlic cloves (finely chopped): Infuses the soup with a fragrant and savory punch.
• Tomato paste: Brings concentrated umami and a hint of sweetness that balances the herbs.
• Fresh oregano (roughly chopped): Introduces an earthy, aromatic note freshening up the dish.
• Fresh thyme (chopped): Offers a subtle woodsy flavor that deepens the soup’s complexity.
• Sundried tomatoes (sliced): Contribute a chewy texture and tangy sweetness.
• Chickpeas (drained and rinsed): Provide heartiness and protein, making the soup filling and nutritious.
• Orzo: This tiny pasta adds a lovely bite and makes the soup more substantial.
• Vegetable stock: The soul of the soup’s broth, it carries all the flavors harmoniously.
• Green olives (pitted and halved or quartered): Give vibrant bursts of briny, slightly tart flavor that makes this recipe stand out.
• Coconut cream: Adds luxurious creaminess and a gentle sweetness that rounds out the flavors.
• Baby spinach (roughly torn): Offers freshness and a hint of earthiness, along with a beautiful color contrast.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all components together.

How to Make Green Olive and Chickpea Orzo Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then toss in your diced onion. Cook it gently for about five minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, setting a comforting, flavorful base for the soup. Next, add finely chopped garlic and let it cook for an additional minute to release its enticing aroma without browning.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the tomato paste along with freshly chopped oregano and thyme. Cooking this mixture for a couple of minutes wakes up their aromas and helps deepen the overall flavor profile. This step is crucial, as it layers fresh herbaceous notes with the richness of tomato, making the broth deliciously complex.

Step 3: Add Key Ingredients and Simmer

Now, it’s time to add the sundried tomatoes, chickpeas, orzo, and vegetable stock to your pot. Bring everything to a lively boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently. This slow cooking allows the orzo to soften perfectly and the flavors to marry beautifully, which typically takes around 10 to 12 minutes. The soup thickens slightly and becomes irresistibly inviting.

Step 4: Finish with Olives, Cream, and Greens

Once your orzo is tender, stir in the green olives that lend a wonderful briny tang, along with creamy coconut cream and fresh baby spinach. Give the soup a few minutes to let the spinach wilt and the olives warm through. This final step introduces a silky richness and vibrant freshness that truly makes this Green Olive and Chickpea Orzo Soup Recipe sing.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, taste your soup and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper for the perfect balance. Serve it up hot and enjoy the burst of flavors and textures that come together so effortlessly in this comforting bowl.

How to Serve Green Olive and Chickpea Orzo Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top adds a lovely freshness and a polished look. You can also pop in some extra olives on the side for anyone wanting an additional salty kick.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with crusty bread or warm pita for dipping, which complements the creamy broth and chewy orzo wonderfully. A crisp green salad on the side balances the hearty nature of the soup with refreshing crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out small loaves or terracotta bowls to amp up the rustic charm. You can also top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream for added creaminess and tang, tailoring the dish to your flavor preference.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup holds up beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen even more. Store it in an airtight container and give it a good stir before reheating, as the orzo tends to soak up broth over time.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover Green Olive and Chickpea Orzo Soup Recipe in portions, but keep in mind that the orzo might become a bit softer after thawing. For best results, freeze without the spinach and stir fresh spinach in when reheating to maintain its bright texture and color.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock or water if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally until warmed through and creamy again, then finish with fresh greens if desired.

FAQs

Can I use other types of olives in this soup?

Absolutely! While green olives are key for their briny sharpness in this recipe, you can experiment with black olives or Kalamata olives for a richer, fruitier twist. Just adjust the quantity to suit your taste.

Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?

This Green Olive and Chickpea Orzo Soup Recipe is naturally vegan thanks to the use of vegetable stock and coconut cream. However, orzo contains gluten, so for gluten-free options, try substituting orzo with quinoa or gluten-free pasta.

Can I substitute coconut cream with something else?

If coconut cream isn’t your thing, feel free to use a vegan cream alternative or even a smooth cashew cream. Dairy cream is fine too if you’re not avoiding animal products. Each will add creaminess but slightly different flavor notes.

How spicy is this soup?

This soup is mild and comforting rather than spicy, with its flavor built around herbs and tangy olives. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want to brighten it up with some heat.

What makes this soup different from other chickpea soups?

The inclusion of green olives and orzo alongside fragrant herbs and creamy coconut cream sets this recipe apart. It’s a vibrant mix that surprises with fresh, tangy, and creamy layers all in one bowl.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Green Olive and Chickpea Orzo Soup Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. Simple green olives transform the soup into a little adventure for your taste buds while chickpeas and orzo create comforting heartiness. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it at home — it’s a delicious way to brighten up any mealtime and feel cozy at the same time!

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