As I stirred the pot, the rich aroma of sautéed onions and garlic danced through my kitchen, a warm invitation on a crisp evening. Today, I’m diving into a delightful recipe that promises to transform your perception of comfort food: Creamy Green Olive Soup with Chickpeas and Orzo. This vegan Mediterranean gem captures the savory brininess of green olives, complemented beautifully by sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs, resulting in a cozy bowl that’s perfect for chilly days. Not only is this soup incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, but it’s also packed with plant-based protein to keep you feeling satisfied. Shall we embark on this culinary adventure together?

Why is Green Olive Soup a Must-Try?

Unique Flavor Profile: This soup combines the briny richness of green olives with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a taste adventure in every spoonful.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this creamy delight in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.

Vegan and Nutritious: Packed with ingredients like chickpeas and spinach, this soup is not only satisfying but also a great source of plant-based protein.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adapt it! Swap orzo for rice for a gluten-free version or mix up the herbs based on what you have at home.

Serve it alongside a warm baguette, and you’ll understand why this dish is a favorite for gatherings. If you enjoy soups, don’t miss out on other comforting recipes like Chorizo Pumpkin Soup and Tuscan Ravioli Soup!

Green Olive Soup Ingredients

For the Base
• Olive oil – adds a warm, rich base for the soup; substitute with any neutral oil if not available.
• Large onion – provides the savory foundation; dice finely for even cooking.
• Garlic cloves – enhance the aromatic profile; freshly minced garlic is recommended for maximum flavor.
• Vegetable stock – forms the soup’s liquid base; chicken broth is an option for non-vegan diets.

For the Flavor
• Tomato paste – contributes a deep, rich flavor; tomato sauce may serve as a substitute, though the taste will differ slightly.
• Fresh oregano – adds a burst of herbal flavor; dried oregano can be used if fresh is unavailable.
• Fresh thyme – provides earthy notes that complement the other ingredients; dried thyme is a suitable alternative.
• Sundried tomatoes – introduce a sweet-tangy flavor and texture; fresh tomatoes could work in a pinch but will alter the overall flavor.

For the Protein and Body
• Chickpeas – serve as a filling protein source; cannellini beans can be swapped for a creamier texture.
• Orzo – adds body and bite to the soup; substitute rice for a gluten-free option, although cooking time may increase.

For the Stars of the Dish
• Green olives – their briny flavor is central to the recipe; ensure they are pitted and halved for quick prep.
• Coconut cream – adds a creamy finish without overpowering; can be replaced with cashew cream or plant-based heavy cream alternatives.
• Baby spinach – provides freshness and color; kale or Swiss chard can be used instead.

Enjoy the zest of this Green Olive Soup—it’s a delightful dish waiting to warm your heart and home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Green Olive Soup with Chickpeas and Orzo

Step 1: Sauté Onions
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced large onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent. This forms the savory foundation of your Green Olive Soup, so don’t rush this step!

Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as this will enhance the aromatic profile of your soup beautifully.

Step 3: Mix in Tomato Paste and Herbs
Now, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of fresh oregano, and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme to the mixture. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes. The tomato paste will deepen the flavors, creating a rich base for your Creamy Green Olive Soup.

Step 4: Incorporate Sundried Tomatoes and Stock
Add in roughly chopped sundried tomatoes, 1 can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed), 1 cup of orzo, and 5 cups of vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer gently. This step is crucial for melding the flavors together.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo
Let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and easily bites through. As it cooks, the texture will transform, thickening the soup while adding hearty body, making it perfect for chilly evenings.

Step 6: Final Touches
Stir in 1 cup of pitted and halved green olives, 1 cup of coconut cream, and a handful of baby spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup reaches a creamy, luxurious consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning to make this Green Olive Soup truly yours.

What to Serve with Creamy Green Olive Soup with Chickpeas and Orzo

Imagine curling up on a cozy evening, your bowl of soup steaming beside a selection of delightful accompaniments, as you savor the harmonious flavors of your meal.

Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping, this warm bread complements the creamy soup while adding a satisfying crunch.
Garlic Herb Croutons: These crispy bites bring extra texture and flavor, enhancing the savory richness of the soup.
Mediterranean Salad: A fresh combination of cucumber, tomato, and feta brightens the meal, balancing the soup’s creaminess with a burst of freshness.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies add a hearty, earthy touch, complementing the vibrant Mediterranean flavors in the soup.
Olive Tapenade: A spreadable mix of olives and herbs that echoes the dish’s briny notes, it pairs beautifully on baguette slices.
Chickpea Hummus: Serving this creamy dip alongside gives guests another protein-rich option while harmonizing with the soup’s flavors.
Lemonade or Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink helps cleanse the palate and highlight the soup’s savory notes without overwhelming it.

Crafting the perfect meal around your Green Olive Soup guarantees an unforgettable culinary experience bursting with warmth and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Green Olive Soup preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can chop your onion, garlic, and sundried tomatoes and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare the chickpeas and orzo in advance, cooking them just before combining with the soup base to maintain the desired texture. When ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped ingredients, add the vegetable stock, and let it simmer until warmed through. Finish the soup with green olives, coconut cream, and fresh spinach just before serving to ensure they retain their vibrant flavors and textures, creating a delicious, comforting meal in no time!

Green Olive Soup Variations

Customize your soup experience with these delightful twists that will elevate flavors and meet your dietary needs.

Gluten-Free: Replace orzo with rice for a gluten-free meal; just be mindful of longer cooking times.
Creamy Cannellini: Swap chickpeas for cannellini beans to achieve a creamier mouthfeel; it’s a wonderful, smooth transformation!
Nut-Free: If coconut cream isn’t your thing, use cashew cream or any plant-based heavy cream alternative for that luscious finish.
Spicy Kick: Want some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a warming spicy note that tantalizes the taste buds.
Herb Swap: Fresh herbs can vary based on what inspires you; try using parsley or basil in place of oregano and thyme for a fresh twist.
Sunny Sunshine: Toss in some grated carrot or diced bell peppers for added sweetness and texture that enhances the Mediterranean charm.
Rich Broth: If you prefer a meatier taste, consider using chicken broth instead of vegetable stock, adding depth to your soup for non-vegan diners.
Chickpeas Beyond: Instead of chickpeas, feel free to toss in lentils or quinoa for a wonderful change that maintains your protein content.

Serving this soup with a warm baguette or some crunchy croutons will make it even more inviting. If you enjoy experimenting with soups, don’t miss out on trying my comforting Chorizo Pumpkin Soup or the flavorful Tuscan Ravioli Soup for more culinary adventures!

Expert Tips for Green Olive Soup

Bold Olives: Use plenty of green olives to highlight their distinctive briny flavor; don’t skimp, as they are the star of the soup!

Sauté Sweetness: Cooking onions and garlic over low heat enables natural sweetness to develop, enhancing the overall flavor of your Green Olive Soup.

Chop Sundried Tomatoes: Cut your sundried tomatoes into small pieces to evenly distribute their sweet-tangy flavor throughout the soup, ensuring every spoonful delights.

Watch Cooking Times: For a gluten-free option, keep an eye on the orzo cooking time if you substitute with rice; it may take longer to become tender.

Creamy Consistency: If using coconut cream, don’t rush adding it until the soup has finished cooking; this will help maintain a smooth, creamy texture without curdling.

How to Store and Freeze Green Olive Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Green Olive Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze soup in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating: To reheat, gently warm your soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of vegetable stock if it thickens.

Taste Improvement: The flavors of the Green Olive Soup actually develop and intensify after a day in the fridge, making it a delightful option for meal prep!

Green Olive Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best green olives for this soup?
Absolutely! Look for green olives that are plump and firm, avoiding any that have dark spots all over. For this recipe, pitted olives work best, as they save you time during preparation. You can use either kalamata or Castelvetrano varieties for a bit of sweetness and brininess.

How should I store leftover Green Olive Soup?
You can store leftover Green Olive Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just gently reheat it on the stove.

Can I freeze Green Olive Soup?
Yes! To freeze, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

What can I do if the soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find the Green Olive Soup has thickened too much after cooking, simply stir in a bit of extra vegetable stock or water until you reach your desired consistency. Just warm it through on the stove, and it will be as good as new!

Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Certainly! This Green Olive Soup is vegan, packed with plant-based protein from chickpeas, and gluten-free if you choose to substitute the orzo with rice. Always be mindful of any allergies to olives, garlic, or chickpeas. You can also skip the coconut cream if desired, using a different plant-based cream instead.

How does the flavor improve after storing?
Very! This soup develops richer flavors after sitting for a day in the fridge due to the ingredients melding together. It’s one of those comforting meals that tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep!