The name “Rosa Marina” is often used interchangeably with orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, and is thought to have Mediterranean or Italian roots. In Italian-American cuisine, Rosa Marina Soup has become a cherished recipe, passed down through generations. It is often served at gatherings, holidays, or as a warm remedy on cold days, and togetherness.
This flavorful soup typically includes a blend of vegetables, a rich broth, and sometimes proteins like chicken or beef.
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta (Rosa Marina)
- Tomato-based broth
- Vegetables: Common additions include onions, celery, and carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
- Herbs and spices: Oregano, basil, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper enhance the taste.
- Meat or protein: Chicken, beef, or even sausage are often used.
Substitutes for Rosa Marina (Orzo) Pasta
If orzo pasta isn’t available, you can substitute it with:
Ditalini pasta: Similar in size and texture, making it an excellent alternative.
Acini di pepe: A small, round pasta that provides a similar bite.
Pearl couscous (Israeli couscous): Slightly larger but still a good substitute for a unique twist.
Rice: Works well if pasta isn’t an option, though the texture will differ slightly.
Best Brands of Orzo Pasta
Choosing high-quality orzo pasta ensures the soup’s texture and taste are perfect. Top-rated brands include:
Barilla Orzo: A reliable, widely available option with consistent quality.
De Cecco Orzo: Renowned for its authentic Italian flavor and texture.
Colavita Orzo: Perfect for traditional recipes with a firm bite.
Organic orzo options: For a healthier twist, brands like Bob’s Red Mill offer organic varieties.
How to Make Rosa Marina Soup (Step-by-Step Recipe)
1. Sauté Onions, Carrots, Celery, and Garlic in Olive Oil Until Softened
Why Sauté? Sautéing these vegetables in olive oil releases their natural flavors, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
How to Sauté Properly:
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add diced onions, chopped carrots, and sliced celery. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Once the vegetables are slightly softened (about 5 minutes), add minced garlic. Garlic cooks quickly, so stir for only 1-2 minutes to avoid burning.
Pro Tip: Adding a pinch of salt during this step helps draw out moisture and speeds up the softening process.
2. Add Tomato Broth, Oregano, Salt, and Pepper, and Bring to a Simmer
Tomato Broth: Use canned tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, or tomato paste diluted in water or stock.
Seasoning: Add dried oregano, along with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Simmering:
- Turn the heat to medium-high to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Pro Tip: For extra depth, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
3. Stir in the Orzo Pasta and Cook Until Tender, About 8–10 Minutes
Adding Orzo: Pour the orzo pasta directly into the simmering broth. Stir well to prevent it from clumping together.
Cooking Time: Orzo generally cooks in 8-10 minutes. Check the package instructions and taste test for doneness. The pasta should be al dente (tender but firm).
Important Tip: Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure the orzo cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Adjusting Consistency: Orzo absorbs liquid as it cooks. If the soup becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water to maintain the desired consistency.
4. Add the Meat or Keep It Vegetarian. Simmer for 5 More Minutes
Adding Meat:
If using cooked shredded chicken, ground beef, or sausage, stir it into the soup during this step.
Let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes to heat the meat through and blend the flavors.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and consider adding protein-rich options like chickpeas, white beans, or tofu.
Pro Tip: If you want a nice texture, you can add diced zucchini, spinach, or kale during this stage.
5. Serve Hot with a Sprinkle of Fresh Basil or Parmesan Cheese
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil: Tear or chop the leaves just before serving.
- Parmesan cheese: Grate or shave fresh Parmesan over the top.
Serving Suggestions:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Pair with crusty bread, garlic bread, or focaccia for dipping. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Tips
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and herbs elevate the flavor.
Toast the orzo: Lightly toasting the pasta in olive oil before adding it to the soup enhances its nuttiness.
Simmer slowly: A low and slow simmer allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Adjust consistency: Add more broth for a soupier texture or less for a stew-like consistency.
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
Avoid overcooking the orzo: Orzo can become mushy; cook it just until al dente.
Add pasta last: Cook the orzo separately and add it just before serving to maintain its bite.
Variations
Vegetarian Rosa Marina Soup Recipe
For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and enhance flavor with vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for depth.
Rosa Marina Soup with Chicken or Beef
Chicken version: Add shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick, protein-packed option.
Beef version: Brown ground beef or stew meat with onions before adding the broth for a heartier soup.
Rosa Marina Soup with Mediterranean Flavors
Infuse your Rosa Marina Soup with a Mediterranean twist by adding:
- Artichoke hearts and olives
- Feta cheese
- Lemon zest and juice
- Herbs like rosemary and thyme
Tips for Cooking Rosa Marina Pasta Perfectly
How to Prevent Overcooking Orzo Pasta
Cook until al dente: Follow the package instructions and taste the pasta a minute before the suggested cooking time ends. It should be tender but firm.
Cook separately, then add: To prevent orzo from becoming mushy, cook it separately and stir it into the soup just before serving.
Use plenty of water: Boil orzo in ample water to avoid clumping and allow even cooking.
Stir frequently: Orzo tends to stick together, so stir often during cooking.
Rinse if needed: For recipes that call for cold orzo, rinse it under cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
What to Serve with
Fresh salads: A crisp Greek or Caesar salad complements the soup’s hearty flavors.
Roasted vegetables: Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make a flavorful side.
Protein options: Grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp pair well with the soup for a complete meal.
Perfect Bread Pairings for Soup
Garlic bread: Adds a deliciously savory crunch.
Rustic Italian bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
Focaccia: A Mediterranean-inspired choice with herbs and olive oil.
Breadsticks: A family-friendly side, especially for kids.
Health Benefits
Rosa Marina Soup can be a nutritious meal, depending on the ingredients:
Rich in fiber: Vegetables and whole-grain orzo contribute to digestive health.
Low in fat: When prepared without heavy creams or fatty meats, it’s a heart-healthy option.
High in protein: Adding chicken, beef, or legumes boosts protein content, supporting muscle health.
Nutritional Value
Orzo: Provides carbohydrates for energy. Whole-grain orzo adds fiber.
Vegetables: Deliver essential vitamins and minerals.
Protein: Builds and repairs tissues when adding chicken, beef, or plant-based proteins.
Low-calorie broth: Makes the soup a light yet filling option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Freeze Rosa Marina Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Rosa Marina Soup, but it’s best to freeze the broth and other ingredients separately from the orzo pasta. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when thawed. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
How Long Does Rosa Marina Soup Last in the Fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Rosa Marina Soup lasts for 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to retain its flavor and texture.
What Makes Rosa Marina Soup Creamy?
- Tomato cream base: Adding a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the tomato broth creates a creamy texture.
- Cheese: Parmesan, cream cheese, or mascarpone can enhance the creaminess.
- Blended vegetables: Pureeing some of the cooked vegetables before adding the orzo can thicken the soup naturally.
More Recipes
Rosa Marina Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup Rosa Marina orzo pasta
- 4 cups tomato broth
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup shredded chicken or ground beef optional
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add tomato broth, oregano, salt, and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the meat or keep it vegetarian. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh basil or Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and herbs elevate the flavor.
- Toast the orzo: Lightly toasting the pasta in olive oil before adding it to the soup enhances its nuttiness.
- Simmer slowly: A low and slow simmer allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Adjust consistency: Add more broth for a soupier texture or less for a stew-like consistency.