Introduction
Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a warm, hearty soup, especially when it features delightful banana peppers stuffed with orzo pasta. This savory orzo stuffed banana peppers soup is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and cozy flavors, perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 4 large banana peppers
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the banana peppers and remove seeds.
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix cooked orzo with half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Stuff each banana pepper with the orzo mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and pour the soup around them in the pot.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the peppers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.
Notes or Tips
- For a spicier kick, choose hot banana peppers.
- Feel free to add chopped vegetables to the orzo mixture for added nutrition.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Techniques
Start by mastering the art of stuffing and baking. Sautéing onions and garlic will enhance the flavors, while simmering enhances the depth of the soup.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite small pasta.
- Is this recipe suitable for freezing? Yes, this soup freezes well for up to a month.
- How do I know when the peppers are done? They should be tender and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
Conclusion
This savory orzo stuffed banana peppers soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm, inviting dish that nurtures the soul. Perfect for dinner on chilly evenings, it brings together simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. Enjoy every spoonful!