Spring Soup With Lemon And Orzo

Name: Spring Soup With Lemon And Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen); 1 cup asparagus, cut into pieces; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (like dill or parsley)

Highlighted under: Light Living Kitchen

I absolutely love how this Spring Soup with Lemon and Orzo brightens up any day. It's a fresh, vibrant dish that brings the tastes and aromas of spring right into my kitchen. The lightness of the soup, combined with the zesty lemon and tender orzo, creates a delightful bowl that feels both comforting and refreshing. This recipe is perfect for those warmer days when you want something light yet satisfying, and it's great for any meal. Let’s explore how to create this springtime favorite!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:40:12.025Z

When I first made this Spring Soup with Lemon and Orzo, I was surprised by how easy it was to whip up! The combination of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs truly brings the dish to life. I usually prefer to use whatever seasonal vegetables I have on hand, like asparagus and peas, which can add vibrant colors and textures.

This recipe works because the lemon adds a bright acidity that balances the flavors, while the orzo provides a nice heartiness without feeling heavy. When you're ready to serve, a sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the dish. Trust me, it's a crowd-pleaser.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavors that awaken your senses
Hearty orzo adds a comforting touch
Versatile recipe that can adapt to seasonal veggies

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Utilizing fresh ingredients is key to achieving the vibrant flavors of Spring Soup with Lemon and Orzo. Fresh peas and asparagus not only enhance the soup's color but also contribute their natural sweetness and crisp textures. If you can't find fresh peas, frozen peas are a great alternative. They maintain their flavor and texture well when added to the pot during the cooking process, ensuring your soup remains bright and lively.

When selecting herbs for garnish, I recommend using fresh dill or parsley. These herbs not only elevate the presentation of your dish but also complement the zesty lemon flavor perfectly. Chopping them just before serving maximizes their aromatic qualities. Toss them in at the end to retain their vibrant colors and essential oils, which can otherwise dissipate if cooked too long.

Cooking Techniques for Success

For a perfectly balanced soup, start by ensuring your aromatics, like onions and garlic, are cooked until they're translucent and fragrant. This typically takes about 5 minutes for the onions. Avoid burning the garlic by only cooking it for about a minute before adding the broth; burnt garlic can introduce bitterness that will affect the overall flavor of the soup.

When cooking the orzo, it's important to keep an eye on it as it simmers. Since orzo is a small pasta, it cooks quickly—usually within 10 to 12 minutes. If overcooked, it can become mushy and lose the delightful al dente texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender vegetables. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather all your fresh ingredients to make this delicious soup.

Ingredients for Spring Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
1 cup asparagus, cut into pieces
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (like dill or parsley)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Let's dive into the cooking process.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Pour in Broth

Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring to a boil.

Add Orzo and Veggies

Stir in the orzo, peas, and asparagus. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until orzo is tender.

Finish with Lemon

Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Now that your soup is ready, let it sit for a few minutes before serving for a fuller flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese when serving. You can also replace the orzo with any preferred small pasta or grains.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Spring Soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can cook the soup base, including the vegetables and broth, a few days in advance. Just add the orzo and cook it fresh when you're ready to eat. This ensures the pasta remains perfectly al dente, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

If you have leftover soup, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it without the orzo. Once thawed, you can reheat the soup and add freshly cooked orzo right before serving, ensuring a delightful texture that holds up well.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this Spring Soup, consider a sprinkle of extra lemon zest on top for a burst of flavor that brightens each bowl. I also love to serve it with crusty homemade bread or a light salad for a complete meal. The refreshing elements of the soup pair beautifully with simple, clean flavors, making it versatile for any occasion.

For variations, feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Green beans, zucchini, or even spinach can be wonderful additions. Just adjust cooking times accordingly; softer vegetables should be added closer to the end of the cooking process to maintain their texture and flavor in the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy.

→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it's best to add the orzo fresh when reheating or make it separately.

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta or quinoa as an alternative to orzo in this recipe.

→ What can I use instead of vegetable broth?

Chicken broth is a great substitute if you're not looking for a vegetarian option.