Italian wedding soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines savory meatballs, fresh greens, and tender pasta in a flavorful broth. Despite its name, it’s not actually served at weddings but gets its title from the Italian phrase “marriage,” which refers to the wonderful combination of flavors in the soup. This dish is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, offering warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. The mix of flavors from the meatballs, vegetables, and herbs creates a delightful experience. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a special treat, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences!
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- To make the perfect Italian wedding soup, it’s important to understand the role of each ingredient and how you can make substitutions if needed.
- Ground Meat: The base of the meatballs! You can use ground beef, turkey, or chicken. For a leaner option, go for ground turkey or chicken. If you prefer, plant-based meat alternatives can also work.
- Breadcrumbs: Essential for binding the meatballs. Use regular breadcrumbs, or substitute with crushed crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a different texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory flavor to the meatballs. Use grated or shredded cheese. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor.
- Broth: Homemade chicken or vegetable broth is best for flavor. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought broth works perfectly.
- Greens: Fresh spinach or kale adds nutrients. If unavailable, frozen spinach is a convenient substitute.
- Pasta: Small shapes like acini di pepe or orzo are ideal. If you can’t find these, any small pasta will do.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley and thyme enhance the soup’s flavor. If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried herbs, but use less since they are more concentrated.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Step 1: Make the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken), ½ cup of breadcrumbs, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until combined, then roll into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size. Set aside.
- Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add 1 diced onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 stalks of diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft. This adds great flavor to your soup base.
- Step 4: Add Broth and Greens
- Pour in 8 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add 4 cups of fresh spinach (or kale) to the pot. The greens will wilt down and add nutrients to the soup.
- Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- Add 1 cup of small pasta (like acini di pepe or orzo) to the boiling broth. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, return the browned meatballs to the pot.
- Step 6: Season and Serve
- Once the pasta is cooked, season the soup with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired!
Pro Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them. Just cook them from frozen when ready to use.
- Customize: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or peas for extra nutrition.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor, so use them if you can! Dried herbs can be used, but reduce the amount.
Italian Wedding Soup Recipe
Description
This Italian wedding soup features tender meatballs, fresh greens, and small pasta in a flavorful broth. It's a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and deliciousness to your table. Quick and easy to make, it's ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in!
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Make Meatballs: In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Roll into small meatballs.
-
Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown them on all sides, then remove and set aside.
-
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
-
Add Broth and Greens: Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Add spinach and simmer for 2 minutes.
-
Cook Pasta: Add small pasta and return meatballs to the pot. Cook until pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
-
Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and thyme before serving. Enjoy!
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 210kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
- Protein 5g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
