Orzo Tomato Soup

Well the time has come once again, yep, back to school. Our kids don't start school for a few more days, but several parents we know have kids starting back tomorrow. It is crazy how quickly summer went by isn't it? In honor of school starting back I am sharing with you  my recipe for Orzo Tomato Soup. I add the orzo to make it a bit more hearty and fulfilling. It also gives it texture. You can eat it alone or it goes great with a sandwich. It also makes a great after school snack or a quick weeknight dinner because 30 minutes is all you need to make this. Why buy a can of tomato soup when you can have the real thing almost as quick? And it tastes so much better.

 Orzo Tomato Soup
adapted from Pioneer Woman


2 cans 14.5 ounces petite diced tomatoes
1 46 ounce can tomato juice
1 1lb box orzo pasta, cooked ( be sure to cook it 3 minutes under instructed cooking time)
1 small white onion, finely chopped
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons of chicken base
5 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
fresh chopped parsley

Start by melting the butter in a dutch oven or soup pot. Add the onion and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes and stir. Add in the tomato juice. Add in the sugar and stir. Add in the chicken base and stir. Add in the cooked orzo and bring to a low boil. Turn off the heat and add in the heavy cream and salt and pepper to taste. Top with fresh chopped parsley and serve.