Italian Wedding Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes
A hearty and flavorful soup filled with meatballs, greens, and a savory broth.
Italian Wedding Soup is a classic dish that combines the richness of meatballs with the freshness of greens. This comforting soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a festive gathering.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Savory meatballs combined with tender greens create a delightful texture.
- A comforting broth that warms you from the inside out.
- Easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners.
The Perfect Comfort Food
Italian Wedding Soup is a beloved classic that embodies the essence of comfort food. With its rich and savory broth, tender meatballs, and vibrant greens, this soup is not only satisfying but also nourishing. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup is sure to impress.
What sets this soup apart is its balance of flavors and textures. The savory meatballs provide a hearty component, while the fresh spinach and carrots add a burst of color and nutrients. This combination makes Italian Wedding Soup a well-rounded meal that is both delicious and wholesome. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for those picky eaters in your family.
A Versatile Recipe
One of the best aspects of Italian Wedding Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, feel free to swap out the spinach for kale or add in some diced tomatoes for a different flavor profile. You can also adjust the size of the meatballs or even use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
This recipe is also perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for a quick meal later. Just reheat the soup on the stove and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness in no time. It’s an easy solution for busy weeknights when you want something nourishing without the fuss.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Italian Wedding Soup experience, consider serving it with crusty bread or a side salad. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, adding a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the soup. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an added layer of flavor.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. Alternatively, a drizzle of good quality olive oil just before serving can enhance the overall taste. Enjoy this soup as a main course, or serve it as a starter for a family gathering or dinner party.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before you start cooking.
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup acini di pepe pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup.
Make the Meatballs
In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
Cook the Meatballs
Add the meatballs to the pot and brown them for about 5 minutes.
Add the Broth and Greens
Pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. Add chopped spinach and sliced carrots, and cook for 10 minutes.
Cook the Pasta
Stir in the acini di pepe pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 10 minutes.
Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Italian Wedding Soup!
Storage Tips
Italian Wedding Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy homemade soup throughout the week. Just be sure to store the pasta separately if you plan to keep leftovers, as it can become mushy when reheated.
If you're looking to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the soup. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. This ensures that you always have a delicious, homemade meal at your fingertips.
Health Benefits
This Italian Wedding Soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. The fresh spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like iron and calcium. Carrots add a sweet crunch and are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is beneficial for eye health.
The homemade meatballs provide a good amount of protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health. By using lean ground beef and whole-grain breadcrumbs, you can create a nutritious meal that satisfies hunger without compromising on flavor.
Cultural Significance
Italian Wedding Soup, or 'Minestra Maritata,' has deep roots in Italian culture, often served at weddings and festive occasions. Its name reflects the union of flavors—the meatballs and greens come together harmoniously, much like a marriage. This soup has transcended its origins to become a beloved dish in many households around the world.
Each family may have its unique twist on the recipe, adding a personal touch that reflects their culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed at a wedding banquet or a weeknight dinner, this soup brings people together, making it a timeless dish that is cherished across generations.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?
Yes, it freezes well. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.
→ What can I use instead of acini di pepe pasta?
You can substitute with small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini.
→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Replace the meatballs with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
Italian Wedding Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup filled with meatballs, greens, and a savory broth.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup acini di pepe pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
Add the meatballs to the pot and brown them for about 5 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. Add chopped spinach and sliced carrots, and cook for 10 minutes.
Stir in the acini di pepe pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 10 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 860mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 22g