1teaspoondried basil leaves, or Italian seasoning blend
Pinchdried oregano leaves
3/4cup(130g)orzo pasta
2Tablespoonsfresh basil, chopped (optional)
For the homemade croutons:
2cupsbread, diced
Olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Pinchdried basil
For garnish:
Fresh basil, thinly sliced, optional
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Instructions
Preheat oven to 425F (regular setting/not fan-assisted). Place the cherry tomatoes and feta in a baking dish. Season with pepper (no salt needed, as the feta is already quite salty) and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to crack.
While tomatoes are roasting, start the soup. In a large pot on the stove-top, over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and heat. Sauté the onion, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring regularly until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds, then add the broth and diced tomatoes. Add the dried basil and oregano and stir in. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the feta/tomatoes are ready.
When the cherry tomatoes/feta are done, add all of it to the soup and puree using an immersion blender. You can puree it as much or as little as you like. (Alternately, you can blend in 1 cup portions in a regular blender). Add the orzo to the soup, stir in and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring regularly, until orzo is tender (taste the orzo, to be sure it is tender). Taste the soup and add additional salt, if needed and some freshly ground pepper. Stir in the fresh basil, if using.
Meanwhile, while the orzo is cooking in the soup pot, make the croutons. In a skillet over medium high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan. Add the bread cubes, a sprinkling of salt and pepper and a pinch of dried basil and cook, stirring regularly, for 4-5 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Remove from heat and allow to sit until the soup is ready.
Serve soup warm, with croutons and fresh basil.
Notes
Be sure to read the notes above this Recipe Card, for more tips on making this recipe. You will also find Step-by-Step photos there, that you might find helpful.