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Turmeric Soup with Chickpeas, Orzo, and Spinach

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This vibrant Turmeric Soup is packed with wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, orzo, and spinach, enhanced with warming spices like turmeric and cumin. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice brightens the flavors, making it a comforting, nutritious meal perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 (15-oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked chickpeas)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups broth (chicken or vegetable, depending on preference)
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat orzo (or regular orzo, Israeli couscous, or a gluten-free grain like rice)
  • 5 oz baby spinach (about 4 packed cups)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro and/or parsley
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or lime juice), plus extra for serving
  • Optional toppings: olive oil, red pepper flakes, lemon wedges, and/or Greek yogurt

Instructions

  • Sauté the Aromatics:
    • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and slightly browned.
  • Add Spices and Chickpeas:
    • Stir in the minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, chickpeas, salt, and black pepper.
    • Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spices are fragrant and the chickpeas begin to crisp slightly.
  • Mash the Chickpeas:
    • Use a potato masher or fork to mash some of the chickpeas, leaving some whole for texture. This will help thicken the soup.
  • Add Broth and Pasta:
    • Pour in the broth, starting with a small amount to deglaze the pot and scrape up any browned bits.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the orzo.
    • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the orzo is fully cooked.
  • Add Spinach and Herbs:
    • Stir in the spinach, cilantro, and/or parsley. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until the spinach wilts.
  • Add Lemon Juice and Serve:
    • Stir in the lemon or lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
    • Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings like a drizzle of olive oil, red pepper flakes, lemon wedges, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Notes

This soup is hearty and flavorful, and the lemon or lime juice adds a refreshing tang. You can adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes if you like heat. For a gluten-free version, use rice or another gluten-free grain instead of orzo.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://easyfoodflash.com/turmeric-soup-with-chickpeas-orzo-and-spinach/