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Pesto Broccoli Orzo Soup Recipe

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4.8 from 20 reviews

This Pesto Broccoli Orzo Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of roasted broccoli, orzo pasta, and a hint of pesto creates a satisfying and delicious soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stove Top
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Roasted Garlic:

  • 1 garlic bulb
  • 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil

Roasted Broccoli:

  • 1 lb of broccoli crowns (about 3 small heads of broccoli)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme

Soup Base:

  • 2 shallots, diced
  • 1/2 tsp fennel seeds
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 cups warm good quality vegetable broth
  • 2 cups warm water (or more vegetable broth)
  • 3/4 cup dry orzo
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 12 tbsp pesto
  • Fresh dill, for garnish
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

For Topping:

  • Homemade or store-bought plant-based ‘feta’

Instructions

  1. Roast the Garlic: Preheat the oven to 425F. Cut 1/4 inch off the top of the garlic bulb, drizzle with oil, sprinkle with salt, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes.
  2. Roast the Broccoli: Cut two broccoli heads into small pieces, toss with oil, garlic powder, thyme, and salt. Bake for 20 minutes.
  3. Prepare the Soup Base: Sauté shallots in oil, add fennel, red pepper flakes, roasted garlic, and mashed broccoli. Add broth, water, orzo, thyme, and cook until orzo is tender.
  4. Finish the Soup: Stir in lemon zest, pesto, salt, and pepper. Serve topped with charred broccoli, ‘feta,’ and dill.

Notes

  • Stir soup occasionally when orzo is cooking to prevent sticking.
  • Add more broth or water if soup thickens upon cooling.
  • Keep some charred broccoli for topping to enhance texture.
  • Add lemon when serving for optimal flavor.

Nutrition