Name: Cozy Vegan Pesto Orzo Soup with White Beans Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional); ½ cup onions, diced; ½ cup carrots, diced; ½ cup celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 6 ounces orzo (gluten-free if needed); 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained and rinsed; Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 Tablespoons vegan pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought); Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

If you are craving something that wraps you up in warmth and comfort while still being light and nourishing, then look no further than this Cozy Vegan Pesto Orzo Soup with White Beans Recipe. It’s a vibrant symphony of creamy white beans, tender orzo, and fresh veggies all brightened by the herbaceous kick of vegan pesto. Every spoonful feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a little pick-me-up that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two white pans with food inside, placed on a white marbled surface. The left pan contains small pieces of cooked light yellow garlic spread evenly across the base, with a slightly oily texture and some browning. The right pan holds a mix of small diced vegetables in three layer-like colors bright orange carrots, pale green celery, and white onion pieces all evenly mixed and cooked lightly, covering the whole pan bottom. Both pans have a soft light yellow inside color that contrasts with the cooked ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe stars simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a soup bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the sweet aromatics to the creamy beans and the fresh punch of pesto that lifts the entire bowl.

Extra virgin olive oil (optional): Adds richness and helps soften the veggies, but you can skip it for an oil-free option.
Onions (½ cup, diced): Bring a mild sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked down.
Carrots (½ cup, diced): Provide subtle earthiness and a lovely pop of color.
Celery (½ cup, diced): Adds freshness and a slight crunch that complements the softness elsewhere.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers aromatic warmth and savory complexity.
Vegetable broth (4 cups): The flavorful base that ties all ingredients together in a soul-soothing way.
Orzo (6 ounces): Tiny pasta pearls that cook quickly and create a delightful texture; use gluten-free if needed.
White beans (1-15 ounce can): Creamy and protein-packed, they add heartiness and keep this soup hearty yet light.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Vegan pesto sauce (3 tablespoons): The secret weapon of freshness and herbal brightness, whether homemade or store-bought.
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving): Add a zesty squeeze that perfectly balances the earthiness of the soup.

How to Make Cozy Vegan Pesto Orzo Soup with White Beans Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by warming a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil if using, then toss in the diced onions. Cook them gently until they turn soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma. This foundational step builds the flavor base that makes the soup so comforting.

Step 2: Add Carrots, Celery, and Garlic

Next, stir in the carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Let everything sauté together for a few minutes more, allowing the vegetables to soften and the garlic to become fragrant without burning. This combination delivers layers of savory goodness that sing in every bite.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo and Beans

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Then add the orzo and drained white beans. Reduce the heat to a simmer and stir occasionally so the orzo cooks evenly and absorbs all those lovely flavors. Cook until the orzo is tender but still has a little bite—al dente perfection.

Step 4: Season and Stir in Pesto

Finally, season the soup with salt and pepper to suit your taste. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vegan pesto sauce. This last addition brightens the entire dish with fresh herbs and a hint of nuttiness, giving the soup its signature cozy vibe.

How to Serve Cozy Vegan Pesto Orzo Soup with White Beans Recipe

Two white bowls filled with a thick soup showing three main layers: a base layer of small white beans mixed with small orange carrot cubes and pale green celery pieces, a middle layer of light brown rice grains and broth with a soft texture, and a top layer of bright green pesto sauce spread unevenly. One bowl in the front has a lemon wedge resting on its edge. The bowls sit on a white marbled surface with a colorful cloth featuring a floral and swirl pattern in red, orange, pink, blue, and green colors. Nearby, there is a gold spoon and a pair of black chopsticks. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving your Cozy Vegan Pesto Orzo Soup with White Beans Recipe is an opportunity to add a little extra flair. Consider offering lemon wedges alongside for those who want a burst of citrusy brightness, which cuts through the creaminess beautifully. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of fresh basil leaves can also enhance the visual appeal and taste.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with light sides like crusty bread or a fresh green salad to keep the meal balanced and satisfying. A warm baguette or garlic toast tucked on the side adds a perfect crunch and makes for fantastic dipping.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in small bowls as appetizers at your next gathering or ladle it into rustic mugs for a cozy brunch vibe. Adding a drizzle of extra pesto or a dollop of vegan yogurt on top can elevate the presentation and provide an extra layer of flavor and indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If your Cozy Vegan Pesto Orzo Soup with White Beans Recipe leaves you with leftovers, no worries at all. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and improve overnight, making the next-day meal even more delicious.

Freezing

Freezing this soup is possible, but keep in mind that the orzo may absorb more liquid and become softer after freezing. Use freezer-safe containers and leave a little room at the top to allow for expanding. For best results, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy again, reheat the soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. You might want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up if it has thickened. Stir in an extra spoonful of pesto after warming to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Can I substitute orzo with another pasta?

Absolutely! Mini pasta shapes like small shells or ditalini work well, though cooking times may vary slightly. Just be sure to adjust accordingly so your pasta stays perfectly tender.

Is this soup high in protein?

Thanks to the white beans, this soup packs a decent protein punch for a plant-based meal. The beans contribute fiber and creaminess, making it both nourishing and filling.

Can I make my own vegan pesto for this recipe?

Yes! Homemade vegan pesto is simple and fresh—blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts or walnuts, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and olive oil. Adjust the ingredients to your liking for a personalized touch to your Cozy Vegan Pesto Orzo Soup with White Beans Recipe.

What if I don’t have vegetable broth on hand?

You can substitute with water and season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs for flavor. Adding a splash of soy sauce or miso paste can also boost the umami depth in a pinch.

Is this soup gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you choose gluten-free orzo. Always check labels to be sure, especially if preparing for someone with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This Cozy Vegan Pesto Orzo Soup with White Beans Recipe has a special place on my table because it’s the perfect blend of comfort, nourishment, and vibrant flavor. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it is sure to become a staple for your plant-based meal rotations. I can’t wait for you to dive into its heartwarming goodness and share it with those you love.