Name: Comforting Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup Ready in 35 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Substitute with avocado oil for a neutral flavor.); 1 medium Red Onion (Yellow onion can be used as a substitute.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic preferred, but garlic powder can work.); 1 medium Carrot (Diced, any root vegetable can create a different taste.); 2 medium Leeks (Diced, including green parts; substitute with green onions.); 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Can be replaced with Italian seasoning.); 4.25 cups Orzo Pasta (Gluten-free orzo is perfect for gluten sensitivities.); 6.33 cups Vegetable Broth (Homemade broth adds depth.); 3 to 4 sprigs Fresh Dill (Replace with parsley if needed.); to taste Salt (Essential seasoning to elevate flavors.); to taste Pepper (Essential seasoning to elevate flavors.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (From 1/2 lemon; lime can be an alternative.); for drizzling Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Used for garnish, enhances overall flavor.)

While rummaging through my pantry the other day, I stumbled upon a bag of orzo and a couple of leeks that had just been waiting for their moment to shine. What a delightful surprise! That’s how this Easy Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup was born—a comforting, quick meal that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome yet simple. Packed with vibrant flavors and a satisfying texture, this vegetarian soup comes together in just 35 minutes, making it both a time-saver and a pleasure to share with family and friends. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for gluten-free diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious bowl. Ready to discover how to transform a few humble ingredients into a cozy masterpiece? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Soup So Irresistible?

Comforting flavors combine beautifully in this dish, offering a warm hug in every spoonful. Quick and Easy to prepare, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 35 minutes—ideal for busy evenings! Versatile by nature, feel free to swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, like opting for gluten-free orzo. Unique Texture from soft veggies and tender orzo creates a delightful mouthfeel that everyone will love. Plus, it’s an excellent pairing with crusty bread or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal. Dive into this comforting experience and impress your family with minimal effort!

Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup Ingredients

• Explore the essential ingredients that make this Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup a comforting favorite!

For the Soup Base

Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in sautéing vegetables; substitute with avocado oil for a neutral flavor.
Red Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow onion can be used as a substitute for a sharper flavor.
Garlic Cloves – Infuses the soup with a pungent aroma; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Carrot (diced) – Offers natural sweetness and texture; any root vegetable, like parsnips, can create a different taste.
Leek (diced, including green parts) – Delivers a mild onion flavor; essential for the dish, though green onions can substitute.
Dried Thyme – Enhances the herbal flavor; can be replaced with Italian seasoning for a delightful alternative.

For the Main Ingredients

Orzo Pasta (4.25 cups or 120 g) – The main carbohydrate that thickens the soup; gluten-free orzo is perfect for those sensitive to gluten.
Vegetable Broth (6 1/3 cups) – Forms the soup base; homemade broth adds much-welcomed depth.
Fresh Dill Sprigs (3 to 4) – Provides freshness and bright flavor; replace with parsley if needed, understanding it alters the taste.

For Seasoning & Acidity

Salt and Pepper – Essential seasoning to elevate flavors; adjust according to taste.
Lemon Juice (from 1/2 lemon) – Brightens and enhances the flavors; lime can be an alternative for a refreshing citrus twist.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for drizzling) – Used for garnish, adding richness; can be omitted but certainly enhances overall flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Begin by finely chopping the red onion and garlic, then dicing the carrot and leek. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and leeks, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare Broth
While the vegetables are cooking, bring 6 1/3 cups of water to a boil in a separate pot. Once boiling, dissolve a vegetable broth cube in the water to create a rich, flavorful broth. Once fully dissolved, remove from heat and set aside, allowing the broth to remain hot for when you add it to the soup.

Step 3: Cook Orzo
After the vegetables are sautéed to perfection, add 120 grams of orzo to the pot with the sautéed veggies. Stir well to coat the orzo in the flavored oil. Pour the hot vegetable broth into the pot, adding a sprinkle of dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite.

Step 4: Finish Soup
Once the orzo is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the lemon juice along with the fresh dill sprigs. This final step will enhance the flavors and add a bright freshness to your comforting orzo, leek, and dill soup.

Step 5: Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls, taking a moment to appreciate its vibrant colors. Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over each serving for added richness. You may also garnish with extra dill for a beautiful finish. Enjoy your delicious orzo, leek, and dill soup alongside some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop your vegetables (onion, garlic, carrot, and leek) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can cook the orzo and let it cool before adding it to the soup—just be sure to refrigerate it to maintain quality. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply sauté the prepped veggies, add the vegetable broth, and mix in the cooked orzo for a cozy meal that feels freshly made. This method allows you to have a comforting, homemade soup at a moment’s notice!

Variations & Substitutions for Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup

Feel free to get creative with your Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup and customize it to your taste preferences or dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute olive oil with vegan butter for richness without dairy. Creamy, yet completely plant-based!
Protein-Packed: Add cooked and shredded chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. It turns a lovely soup into a filling meal!
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh basil or cilantro instead of dill for a unique flavor profile. Each herb brings its own twist to this delightful dish.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to spice things up as you simmer the soup. You’ll love the warmth it adds!
Different Pasta Shapes: Use small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even gluten-free pasta options to switch it up. A fun texture variation awaits!
Added Veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale for extra greens. This adds a burst of color along with fabulous nutrients to your comforting bowl!
Creative Broth: Try swapping vegetable broth with homemade chicken broth for a deeper flavor. You’ll enjoy the richness it brings to the dish!
Nutty Flavor: Drizzle some toasted sesame oil just before serving for a nutty finish that elevates the entire soup experience. A perfect addition for those who love unique tastes!

Consider checking out our delicious Chicken Noodle Soup or Broccoli Cheddar Soup for additional comforting meals or use some of these suggestions to create a variation you can call your own!

What to Serve with Easy Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup

Pairing your soup with complementary dishes can elevate your meal experience and create a cozy dining atmosphere.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping. The texture balances the soup’s creaminess while adding a satisfying bite.
Greek Salad: Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and tangy feta create a refreshing contrast, making every spoonful of soup taste brighter and more flavorful.
Grilled Mediterranean Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add a smokey depth, enhancing the fresh flavors of the soup.
Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs provides a wholesome, protein-filled base that pairs beautifully with the light soup.
Lemon-Garlic Roasted Chicken: For meat lovers, a zesty roasted chicken adds richness to your meal. The garlic and lemon echo the soup’s flavors while adding depth.
Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a bright note with a light, refreshing sorbet. Its tartness cleanses the palate after the comforting soup, leaving you feeling satisfied.
Sparkling Water with Mint: A thirst-quenching drink like sparkling water infused with fresh mint complements the soup beautifully, enhancing its herbal notes and freshness.
Garlic Parmesan Toast: Crunchy garlic toast brings savory flavors that mesh well with the soup, adding a delightful crunch you won’t forget!

Expert Tips for Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup

Timing is Key: Add the orzo during the last 10-12 minutes of cooking to ensure it doesn’t become mushy, preserving the perfect texture in your soup.
Leek Cleaning: Leeks can have sand trapped between their layers; slice them first and rinse under cold water to eliminate grit for a cleaner soup.
Herb Freshness: Introduce fresh dill and lemon juice at the end of cooking to maintain their bright flavors; taste and adjust seasoning afterward for the best experience.
Reheating Tip: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of extra vegetable stock to restore consistency, as orzo absorbs liquid when stored, preventing a thick stew-like texture.
Ingredient Substitutions: Embrace versatility by using different herbs like basil or cilantro, and substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes for exciting variations in your orzo, leek, and dill soup.

Storage Tips for Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reinforce flavors by gently reheating with extra broth to prevent thickening.
Freezer: This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth as needed to restore its creamy consistency. Warm it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally for an even heat.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the soup at room temperature longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety; refrigerate promptly after serving.

Orzo, Leek and Dill Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of orzo should I choose for this soup?
I recommend using regular or gluten-free orzo based on your dietary needs! Gluten-free orzo can be found in rice or corn-based options and works perfectly in this recipe, allowing everyone to enjoy a comforting bowl of orzo, leek, and dill soup.

How should I store leftovers of the soup?
Absolutely! Store your leftover Orzo, Leek, and Dill Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you reheat it, stir in extra broth to maintain that creamy texture, as orzo tends to absorb liquid during storage!

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It keeps well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore its consistency.

What if my leeks are sandy or gritty?
Good question! To clean leeks thoroughly, slice them first and rinse under cold water, gently separating the layers to remove any lingering sand. This ensures you don’t end up with gritty soup, letting the flavors shine through in your orzo, leek, and dill soup.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?
Very much so! While dried thyme works beautifully, fresh herbs will elevate the soup. If you’re using fresh thyme, I suggest adding about twice as much since they have a milder flavor; add it toward the end of cooking for that vibrant taste.

Is this soup pet-friendly?
It’s great to check! While the ingredients in this soup are generally safe, always avoid giving pets anything seasoned with salt or onion, as these can be harmful. Be sure to share this delicious soup with your two-legged friends instead!