Zupas Copycat Tomato Basil Orzo Soup

Everyone loves Zupas, and one evening I decided to make a copycat Tomato Basil Orzo Soup—the results were fantastic!

Zupas Copycat Tomato Basil Orzo Soup
Zupas Copycat Tomato Basil Orzo Soup

Everyone loves Zupas, and one evening I decided to make a copycat Tomato Basil Orzo Soup—the results were fantastic!

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 6
  • Carbohydrate 29.893253321567 g
  • Cholesterol 4.0000000033814 mg
  • Fat 2.44782534837358 g
  • Fiber 6.43999132488111 g
  • Protein 6.9566119850421 g
  • Saturated Fat 0.905290764527284 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 serving (515g)
  • Sodium 2420.62201580216 mg
  • Sugar 23.4532619966859 g
  • Trans Fat 0.397213680866468 g
  • Calories 150 calories

Step-by-step

  • Place the tomatoes on a baking sheet lightly drizzled with olive oil, toss to coat, and sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper.
  • Roast at 425°F for 20-40 minutes, or until shriveled and soft.
  • Remove from the oven, let cool, then blend the tomatoes and juices until you have 2 1/2 cups (adjust with tomato sauce if needed).
  • Drizzle 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large sauce pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Add minced garlic, reduce heat to medium, and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  • Add tomato puree, juice, broth, tomato sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Add milk and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  • Stir in butter and basil.
  • Cook orzo pasta according to package directions and drain.
  • Ladle soup into bowls, add orzo and parmesan, and serve immediately.
  • Allow soup to cool and store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.

My Zupas Copycat Adventure: A Deliciously Simple Recipe

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present to-do list. But I also believe that nourishing my family with home-cooked meals is incredibly important, both for their health and for our connection as a family. So, I'm constantly on the lookout for recipes that are both flavorful and quick to prepare.

Recently, I discovered a real gem: a copycat recipe for Zupas Tomato Basil Orzo Soup. I've always loved Zupas, but let's be honest, eating out regularly isn't always feasible, especially on a budget. So, the idea of recreating this restaurant-quality soup at home was incredibly appealing. And let me tell you, the results completely exceeded my expectations.

The process itself is remarkably straightforward. Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and creates a rich, deep flavor base. The simple combination of garlic, herbs, and a touch of brown sugar perfectly complements the tangy tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors in every spoonful. The orzo adds a delightful textural element, providing a hearty and satisfying counterpoint to the vibrant tomato broth.

Beyond the taste, what truly impressed me was the versatility of this recipe. I've easily adapted it to suit my family's preferences. Sometimes, I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth, and on other occasions, I've added a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of extra heat. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even add some protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more substantial meal. It’s easily adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences.

This soup has become a staple in our household, a comforting and delicious meal that we can all enjoy together. It’s perfect for a chilly evening, a cozy weekend lunch, or even a light dinner. The leftovers are fantastic too – the flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day. And the best part? It's so easy to prepare that even on my busiest days, I can whip up a batch without sacrificing precious family time.

Making this soup isn't just about feeding my family; it's about creating memories. The aroma filling the kitchen as the tomatoes roast is a comforting signal that we're sharing a meal together. It's about the ritual of gathering around the table, sharing stories, and savoring the flavors of a delicious, homemade meal. It's a simple act, but it's one that brings us closer as a family and reminds me of the joy of cooking and the importance of creating a warm and inviting atmosphere around the dinner table.

So, if you're looking for a delicious, easy-to-make soup that will delight your family, I highly recommend giving this Zupas copycat recipe a try. You might just discover your new favorite weeknight meal!