Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 carrots, chopped

2 celery sticks, chopped (including leaves)

2 tbsp tomato purée

3 garlic cloves, chopped

3 rosemary or thyme sprigs

1 litre vegetable stock

400g can chopped tomatoes

400g can chickpeas

Parmesan rind or vegetarian alternative (optional)

150g orzo

Extra virgin olive oil, to serve

Grated cheese, to serve (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery (including leaves) and cook for about 15 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Stir in the tomato purée, chopped garlic, and rosemary or thyme sprigs. Cook for a few minutes until the purée caramelises and the mixture is fragrant.

Step 3: Pour in the vegetable stock, chopped tomatoes, chickpeas with their liquid, and add the parmesan rind if using. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Meanwhile, pour boiling water over the orzo in a heatproof bowl and let it soak for 15 minutes. Then drain the orzo thoroughly.

Step 5: Add the drained orzo to the soup and cook for another 5 to 8 minutes until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Remove the rosemary or thyme sprigs and parmesan rind from the soup. Season well with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve the soup drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with grated cheese if desired. Enjoy warm.

Tips & Variations

Use thyme instead of rosemary for a slightly different herbal note.

For a vegan option, skip the parmesan rind and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for topping.

If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the vegetable stock slightly or add more orzo.

Feel free to add chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but dried chickpeas need to be soaked overnight and cooked until tender before adding to the soup. Using canned chickpeas is quicker and more convenient.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen when left to sit overnight. Just reheat before serving and add fresh toppings like olive oil and cheese just before eating.