Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

ByEleni
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I grew up with simple soups that warmed both the heart and the home. This rice and onion soup recipe brings together the humble beauty of everyday ingredients with Mediterranean flavors I cherish. A splash of olive oil, tender onions, and soft rice—this is comfort, Greek-style.

The first time I made this rice and onion soup recipe in my tiny American kitchen, it took me right back to my yiayia’s stove. It’s soothing on rainy days, gentle when I’m under the weather, and so easy to love. Just a few pantry staples, and it always delivers.

Table Of Contens

Why You Will Love This Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

What Makes This Dish So Satisfying

  • Sweet onions melt into the broth for deep, cozy flavor
  • Tender rice makes the soup creamy without cream
  • A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and depth
  • Fresh herbs bring brightness to every spoonful
  • Light but filling—perfect for any season

Why It’s a Favorite in My Kitchen

  • Uses pantry staples I always have on hand
  • Easily made vegan or gluten-free
  • Heals the soul when I’m feeling low
  • Quick enough for busy weeknights
  • Pairs beautifully with crusty bread or salad

Ingredients for Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

A flat lay of rice and onion soup ingredients, including onions, rice, garlic, parsley, bay leaves, lemon, olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices, arranged on a rustic wooden table.
Ingredients for rice and onion soup neatly arranged on a rustic wooden table, ready for preparation.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
    For richness and a silky base
  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
    Sweeter onions work best; slice evenly for even cooking
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    Adds depth and Mediterranean warmth
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
    Balances the sweetness of the onions
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    Adds gentle spice—adjust to taste
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
    For tender texture; rinse well before using
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
    Choose low-sodium for more control over flavor
  • 2 bay leaves
    Adds a subtle herbal note
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    Brightens the flavor just before serving
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
    For color and fresh aroma
  • Optional: grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil
    For richness and finishing flair

How to Choose the Best Ingredients for Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

Fresh, Simple Ingredients Make It Shine

  • Choose firm, golden-yellow onions with no soft spots
  • Use fresh garlic—avoid pre-minced jars for best flavor
  • Rinse rice thoroughly to remove excess starch
  • Pick vegetable broth with clean, natural ingredients
  • Use bright green parsley without wilted tips
  • Go for cold-pressed olive oil for the richest taste
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice lifts the whole dish

Smart Swaps and Tips

  • Swap white rice with brown for more fiber
  • Use basmati for a fragrant twist
  • Try shallots for a milder, sweeter onion base
  • Add chili flakes if you like heat
  • Use gluten-free broth for a celiac-friendly version
  • A soft-boiled egg on top makes it heartier

How to Make Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

Step-by-step photos showing how to make rice and onion soup: sautéing onions, adding rice and herbs, pouring in broth with bay leaves, and the finished soup served in a bowl.
Step-by-step process of making rice and onion soup, from sautéing onions to the finished dish, in a four-image collage.
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced onions and cook slowly until golden, about 20 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper; cook 2 more minutes.
  4. Add rice and stir well to coat in oil and onion mixture.
  5. Pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaves.
  6. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
  7. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley just before serving.
  8. Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan or olive oil if desired.

Serving Suggestions for Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

How I Love to Serve It

  • With crusty sourdough and a drizzle of olive oil
  • In wide bowls with lemon wedges on the side
  • Topped with a soft-boiled egg for extra comfort
  • Paired with a crisp cucumber-tomato salad
  • Sprinkled with extra parsley and black pepper

Perfect for Sharing

  • A gentle starter for family dinners
  • Comforting on rainy evenings with friends
  • Ideal for meal trains or get-well baskets
  • Easy to double for a casual dinner party
  • Lovely with a glass of dry white wine

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

Common Prep Mistakes

  • Don’t rush the onions—they need slow cooking for full sweetness
  • Avoid skipping the rice rinse—it prevents cloudiness
  • Don’t add rice too early or it may overcook
  • Avoid high heat—it can scorch the onions and ruin the base
  • Don’t forget to stir—rice may stick to the pot

Flavor and Texture Mistakes

  • Don’t skip the lemon—it brings needed brightness
  • Avoid overpowering herbs; keep it simple and balanced
  • Don’t use overly salty broth—taste before adding extra salt
  • Avoid pre-chopped garlic—it lacks punch and flavor
  • Don’t overcook the rice—it should stay soft, not mushy

How to Store Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

Refrigerating Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Let cool fully before refrigerating to avoid condensation
  • Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water
  • Rice may absorb broth—add liquid as needed when reheating

Freezing Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

  • Freezing is not ideal—the rice can become mushy
  • If freezing, undercook rice slightly and freeze in portions
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly
  • Add fresh herbs and lemon after reheating for brightness

Health Benefits of Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

  • Onions are rich in antioxidants that support immune health
  • Garlic may help reduce inflammation and support heart health
  • Rice provides gentle, easy-to-digest energy
  • Olive oil adds healthy fats and anti-inflammatory benefits
  • Parsley offers vitamin C and fresh flavor
  • Naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free
  • Light but nourishing—great for gentle digestion

Discover More Comforting Soups

If you loved rice and onion soup, discover these delicious recipes for more cozy, flavorful bowls:

Rice and Onion Soup Recipe

Rice and Onion Soup Recipe
A warm, comforting soup made with golden onions, tender rice, and Mediterranean flavors like olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs. Light yet satisfying, it’s perfect for any season and easy to customize.

Equipment

  • Large soup pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice rinsed
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional: grated Parmesan or extra olive oil for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add onions and cook until golden, about 20 minutes.
  • Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook 2 more minutes.
  • Add rice and stir well to coat.
  • Pour in broth and add bay leaves.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes.
  • Stir in lemon juice and parsley.
  • Serve hot with toppings if desired.

Notes

Rinsing rice removes extra starch and prevents cloudiness.
Add more broth when reheating as rice absorbs liquid.
For a vegan version, skip the Parmesan or use plant-based cheese.
A soft-boiled egg or sautéed greens make great add-ins.

Simple, Healing, and Full of Flavor

This rice and onion soup recipe is one I return to again and again. It’s proof that simple ingredients—when treated with care—can nourish both body and soul. Whether I’m feeling under the weather or just craving something gentle and warming, this bowl never disappoints. It’s light yet satisfying, easy to customize, and always full of Mediterranean comfort. I hope it brings just as much warmth and ease to your table.

FAQs

  • Do you cook rice before adding to soup?

    No, I add uncooked rice directly to the pot.
    It gently simmers in the broth, soaking up all that lovely onion flavor as it cooks.

  • What is the difference between onion soup and French onion soup?

    French onion soup is made with beef broth, wine, and loads of cheese.
    My version is lighter, vegetarian-friendly, and uses olive oil and lemon for a fresh Mediterranean touch.

  • How do you keep rice from getting mushy in soup?

    Don’t overcook it—simmer just until the rice is tender.
    Also, try reheating gently and add a splash of broth to refresh the texture.

  • Can I add uncooked rice to canned soup?

    Yes, you can! Just be sure to add extra broth or water.
    Let it simmer until the rice is fully cooked—this may take 15 to 20 minutes.

  • Do you use stock or broth for rice?

    I love using vegetable broth—it’s flavorful yet light.
    If you prefer a deeper flavor, low-sodium stock works beautifully too.

  • How to make rice soup at home?

    Start by sautéing onions or garlic in olive oil, then add rice and broth.
    Let it simmer gently, season well, and finish with herbs or lemon for brightness.

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