Rosa Marina Soup (Italian Orzo Soup with Chicken and Tomato)

Want to make delicious Rosa Marina (orzo tomato soup) in less than 30 minutes? This recipe has got you covered, with everything, from which herbs, seasoning and toppings to use to ensure it's next-level tasty, to cooking methods, and optional add-ins so your soup turns out just the way you like it.

• Butter: Is used for sautéing the onions, garlic and herbs instead of oil to add a little extra richness to the soup.
• Fresh thyme and rosemary: Add earthy, warm herbaceous flavour.
• Chicken or veg stock: Use powdered or fresh.
• Tomato paste/puree: The speedy way to bring rich tomato flavour to the soup.
• Salt: The amount needed (if any) will vary depending on how salty your stock is so I suggest adding to taste.

Optional ingredients:

• Balsamic vinegar: For a touch of sweetness and acidity.
• Worcester sauce: To add a hint of umami.
• Heavy cream (double cream): For a richer and creamy soup.
• Spinach: You can use fresh or frozen. If using frozen ensure you thaw and squeeze the water out first so you don't dilute the tasty flavours in the soup.
• Cooked shredded chicken: Leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
• Parmesan shavings: A tasty topping that adds a touch of salty nuttiness. Use a potato peeler if your grater can't shave Parmesan.
• Fresh basil: For a touch of fresh vibrant flavour.

Substitutions:

Note that the recipe has not been tested with all the substitutions and variations below, so the results cannot be guaranteed.

• Butter: Substitute with olive or neutral oil.
• Fresh thyme and rosemary: Substitute with one-third of the amount of dried herbs.
• Heavy cream: You can use pouring cream instead. Note that it won't add the same level of richness, and you might need to add a little more.
• Spinach: Swap for another leafy green like kale or cavelo nero.

Variations:

• Mediterranean: Add ingredients like Kalamata olives, feta cheese, artichoke hearts, and fresh oregano.
• Spicy: With red pepper flakes or fresh chillies to add a spicy kick to the soup.
• Vegetable Soup: With carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and celery to create a hearty and nutritious vegetable-packed soup.
• Lentil: Add cooked lentils for extra protein and texture to contrast the orzo.
• Without Rosa Marina/orzo: For a lighter and less carby version.
• Sausage: Switch the chicken for some bite-sized pieces of cooked Italian sausage.

Step 1: Gently fry the onions on a medium heat until translucent, then add the garlic, thyme and rosemary and sauté for a minute or two until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the tomato paste/puree, balsamic vinegar (if using) and Worcester sauce (if using).

Step 3: Pour on the stock and simmer the soup for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Remove from the heat and stir in the cream and add salt and pepper to taste. Add the spinach and stir until wilted. Then add the cooked chicken and orzo/Rosa Marina. Serve immediately topped with fresh Parmesan and basil or leave to cool, refrigerate and serve later.

🍽️ Serving suggestions

With pasta, protein-rich chicken and nutritious spinach, this soup is easily a standalone meal, but there are lots of options if you want something extra on the side.

• Garlic Bread or Crostini: To complement the flavours of the soup and add a satisfying crunch.
• Salad: Accompany the soup with a light salad like this Rocket and Tomato Salad.
• Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar as an appetizer or side dish.
• Italian antipasto platter: Featuring cured meats, marinated olives, roasted peppers, and other delicious bites.
• Crackers or Breadsticks: For dipping into the soup.
• Red Wine: If you enjoy wine, a light or medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti, can be a lovely accompaniment.

📖 Recipe