why make this recipe
Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines savory meatballs, tender vegetables, and small pasta in a rich chicken broth. It brings together flavors and warmth, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to sneak in some vegetables while enjoying a cozy meal. This soup is easy to make and can be customized with ingredients you have on hand, making it a versatile choice for any time of year.
how to make Italian Wedding Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup small pasta (such as acini di pepe)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chopped spinach or escarole
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Gently add the meatballs to the broth and cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the small pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
- Add the chopped greens and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
how to serve Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is best served hot. You can ladle it into bowls and top it with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It’s great for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests at a gathering.
how to store Italian Wedding Soup
To store Italian Wedding Soup, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop until hot.
tips to make Italian Wedding Soup
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil to enhance the flavor of the soup.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, add more pasta or reduce the amount of broth.
- To save time, you can use pre-made meatballs instead of making your own.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas or zucchini for more color and nutrition.
variation
You can make a vegetarian version of Italian Wedding Soup by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth. Replace the meatballs with roasted mushrooms or a mix of beans. You can also experiment with different types of greens like kale or Swiss chard.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if you do not have fresh ones. Just add them to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking.
2. Is Italian Wedding Soup a healthy option?
Yes, this soup is packed with nutrients from the vegetables and can be made leaner by using less fatty meat or opting for ground turkey.
3. How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the broth as it simmers.