Welcome to a hearty and comforting recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week! This creamy tomato soup with orzo and protein-packed turkey meatballs is simmered in a rich coconut milk tomato broth, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Recipe: Creamy Tomato Soup with Orzo and Turkey Meatballs
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup orzo
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Soup:
- In a large pot, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in the orzo and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
- Add the coconut milk and stir well.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Add the cooked meatballs to the soup.
- Simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each serving has a few meatballs.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Enjoy your creamy tomato soup with orzo and turkey meatballs!
Recommendations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute turkey meatballs with vegetarian or vegan meatballs, or use chickpeas for added protein.
- Dairy-Free: Ensure your breadcrumbs and Parmesan are dairy-free, or use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
- Pasta Variety: Swap orzo with any small pasta like ditalini or small shells.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Extra Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by adding spinach, kale, or bell peppers to the soup.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato soup with orzo and turkey meatballs is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of tender meatballs, smooth coconut milk broth, and hearty orzo makes it a standout dish. Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy your cozy bowl of goodness!
