Pesto Broccoli Orzo Soup

Serves 1
tiktok.com

Directions

  1. 1Season and roast a whole head of garlic and some broccoli to bring out more of their natural sweetness and complex flavors.
  2. 2Add the roasted garlic and broccoli to a pot with some sauteed shallots and extra seasoning.
  3. 3Pour in your broth and bring to a low boil.
  4. 4Stir in your orzo.
  5. 5When the orzo is close to being al dente, stir in some lemon and pesto.
  6. 6Serve the soup as you like, for example, with leftover dried broccoli and marinated tofu for “feta”-like vibes.

Ingredients

  • 1 garlic bulb
  • 2.5 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb broccoli crowns (about 3 small heads of broccoli)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme
  • 2 shallots, diced
  • 0.5 tsp fennel seeds
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 4 cups warm good quality vegetable broth
  • 2 cups warm water (or more vegetable broth)
  • 0.75 cup dry orzo
  • 1 Zest and juice of lemon
  • 1 tbsp pesto, I used a homemade dairy-free version
  • 2 tbsp pesto, I used a homemade dairy-free version
  • Fresh dill, for garnish
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Homemade or store bought plant-based “feta” For topping
  • marinated tofu

Equipment

pot

Tips

  • Seasoning and roasting garlic and broccoli brings out more natural sweetness and complex flavors.
  • Changing the cooking method can extract more flavor from simple ingredients.