Description
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful Golden Turmeric Soup featuring chickpeas, orzo, and fresh spinach. Infused with turmeric, cumin, coriander, and a touch of cinnamon, this vibrant soup is both comforting and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it combines protein-rich chickpeas and nourishing vegetables in a vibrant golden broth.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced (optional)
Seasonings & Garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add spices: Stir in ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon if using. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes to help release their aromas and flavors.
- Add broth and chickpeas: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed chickpeas along with the diced carrots and zucchini if using. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Cook the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta, cooking according to the package instructions, about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add spinach: When the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh chopped spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
- Season and finish: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. For a fresh, bright finish, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute orzo with other small pasta or grains like couscous or rice if preferred.
- The zucchini is optional but adds a nice texture and nutrition boost.
- Adjust spices to your taste preferences, especially turmeric and cinnamon.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Add fresh lemon juice just before serving to preserve brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
