Venus De Milo'S Orzo Soup
Venus De Milo's Orzo Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, vegetables, and tender orzo pasta, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put ground beef, beef bouillon cubes, chopped onion, and tomato sauce into a large saucepan and fill to half full with water.
- Cook until the ground beef and onions are done.
- Add the vegetables; bring to a boil.
- Add orzo pasta and cook until the orzo is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef before adding the other ingredients. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the beef with lentils or beans, and use vegetable broth instead of water. Adding herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the taste. This soup can also be enhanced with a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch. It also pairs beautifully with Meat Turnovers for a satisfying dinner. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a little water or broth to maintain the soup's consistency, as orzo tends to absorb liquid. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Venus De Milo'S Orzo Soup contains roughly 308 calories, with 8g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (87% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of pasta in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as some may take longer to cook than orzo.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just be aware that the pasta may continue to absorb liquid, so you might need to add some more broth or water when reheating.
Is it possible to freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, it's best to freeze it without the pasta, as it can become mushy upon thawing. Cook the pasta separately when you're ready to enjoy the soup again.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).