Bowl of Italian Wedding Soup with meatballs and fresh greens

Italian Wedding Soup

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Why Make This Recipe

Italian Wedding Soup is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. It’s a delightful mix of hearty flavors that can easily be made with simple ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to enjoy a cozy meal at home, this soup is sure to please everyone. It’s not just delicious but also nutritious, packed with greens, vegetables, and protein.

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup acini di pepe (or other small pasta)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
  • 1 pound ground beef or a mix of ground meats
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg

Directions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  2. Add the chicken broth, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form it into small meatballs.
  4. Once the broth is boiling, gently add the meatballs and pasta. Cook until both the pasta and meatballs are cooked through, which takes about 10 minutes.
  5. Stir in the spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it wilts.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup

Serve Italian Wedding Soup hot in bowls. You can garnish it with extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This soup is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

How to Store Italian Wedding Soup

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. The soup can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to leave out the pasta, as it can become mushy when reheated. Add fresh pasta when you reheat the soup.

Tips to Make Italian Wedding Soup

  • Use fresh herbs if available for an added layer of flavor.
  • You can mix different types of ground meat for a richer taste.
  • Add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value.
  • Adjust the seasonings according to your taste. Add a bit of red pepper flakes for heat if desired.

Variation

You can tailor this soup to your liking. Some people like to use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Additionally, you can replace spinach with other greens like Swiss chard or escarole.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time. It’s actually great for leftovers, as the flavors meld together even better after a day in the fridge.

Is Italian Wedding Soup gluten-free?

You can make this soup gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free pasta substitute. Always check labels to ensure they meet your needs.

What can I serve with Italian Wedding Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a light salad. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of lemon juice for a refreshing touch.