Italian Wedding Soup

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a bowl of Italian Wedding Soup. I remember the first time I had this dish; it was at my grandmother’s house during a chilly winter evening. The aroma of simmering broth filled the air, mingling with laughter and storytelling. As she ladled the soup into bowls, the anticipation grew. Each spoonful was a delightful mix of flavors, from the savory meatballs to the fresh greens. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory that warms the soul. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table with family or enjoying a quiet night in, Italian Wedding Soup is the perfect companion.

Essential Ingredients for Italian Wedding Soup

In Italian Wedding Soup, the ingredients harmonize beautifully, creating a symphony of taste. The key players include delicious meatballs, vibrant spinach, and rich chicken broth, all coming together to form a comforting dish perfect for winter.

• 1/2 lb ground turkey (or ground beef): A lean protein that adds substance to the soup.
• 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage: Brings a burst of flavor and spice.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Helps bind the meatballs together for a perfect texture.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Adds a delightful crunch and texture to the meatballs.
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a rich, cheesy flavor that enhances the soup.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and savory notes.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the meatballs and broth.
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for cooking: Ensures the meatballs brown beautifully.
• 1 yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 large carrots, diced: Contributes natural sweetness and color.
• 2 celery ribs, diced: Adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
• 8 cups chicken broth: The flavorful base of the soup, creating warmth and comfort.
• 3/4 cup acini de pepe pasta: Tiny pasta that absorbs the broth and adds heartiness.
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Provides a vibrant pop of color and essential nutrients.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and adds acidity.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For a hint of heat, balancing the soup’s flavors.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving, optional: A finishing touch that adds richness.

Directions for Italian Wedding Soup

Making Italian Wedding Soup is a joyfully engaging process that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious masterpiece that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, ground sausage, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until they are evenly distributed. A good tip is not to overmix; you want tender meatballs.
2. Once the mixture is well combined, roll tablespoon-sized portions into balls and place them on a large plate. Ensure they’re not touching, which helps them brown evenly.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add half of the meatballs. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are browned on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage since they’ll finish cooking in the soup.
4. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining meatballs.
5. In a large pot, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables have softened, stirring frequently.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, allowing its fragrance to fill the kitchen.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. It’s essential to taste at this point, seasoning with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper as desired.
8. Once boiling, carefully add the cooked meatballs and acini de pepe pasta into the broth. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer.
9. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are cooked through. The aroma at this stage is just wonderful.
10. Finally, stir in the chopped spinach, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute before removing the pot from the heat.
11. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian Wedding Soup warm!

How to Switch It Up

There are several ways to put a new spin on Italian Wedding Soup. Whether you’re looking for different flavors or dietary adjustments, these tips will help you make the soup your own!

• Add more greens: Incorporate kale or Swiss chard alongside spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist.
• Try different meats: Switch out the ground turkey for chicken or even make it vegetarian with black beans or lentils.
• Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream for a richer texture.
• Serve with crusty bread: Pair your soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish innovatively: Top with crispy shallots or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an upscale touch.

Perfect Matches for Italian Wedding Soup

When it comes to serving Italian Wedding Soup, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful ideas:

• Crusty bread: A warm slice of rustic Italian or sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
• Salad: Pair with a light salad, such as a classic Caesar or a fresh garden salad, to balance the flavors.
• Cheese pairings: Offer grated Parmesan cheese and crusty bread on the side for guests to customize their bowls.
• Seasonal sides: Roasted vegetables or a seasonal ratatouille can add vibrant colors and extra nutrition.
• Occasions: Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or festive occasions like Christmas or Thanksgiving.
• Storage tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for 3 months.

FAQ

Conclusion

The heartwarming nature of Italian Wedding Soup is what makes it truly special. It’s a dish that brings families together, combining rich flavors and comforting textures in every bowl. I encourage you to try making this soup at home; I promise it will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and create lasting memories around the table.

Italian Wedding Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Italian Wedding Soup combines tender meatballs, fresh spinach, and rich chicken broth in a delightful bowl. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for family gatherings, and it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight and enjoy a warm hug in a bowl!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Soups

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 lb ground turkey or ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 large egg beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
• 1 yellow onion chopped
• 2 large carrots diced
• 2 celery ribs celery diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3/4 cup acini de pepe pasta
• 4 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped (can use escarole)
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving, optional

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Food Processor
• Grater
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, ground sausage, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently toss with hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Roll the mixture into tablespoon-size meatballs and transfer to a large plate.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium high heat. Add half of the meatballs and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until browned on all sides, turning occasionally. They don’t have to be cooked all the way through because they will finish cooking in the soup. Transfer cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat the process with remaining meatballs.
4. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium high heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 minutes, or until veggies have softened. Add garlic and cook for one more minute.
5. Poor in the broth and bring to a boil. Season soup with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, to taste. Add in the pasta and meatballs, reduce the heat to low.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for about 10 minutes or until pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through.
7. Stir in spinach, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for one more minute. Remove from heat.
8. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: You need 1 lb ground meat. We like to use a mix of ground turkey and Italian sausage, but you can use all ground turkey, all ground beef, all Italian sausage, or a mix!
• Tip 2: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Tip 3: You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

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Meet Juliet Sterling

Creating rich, complex flavors is my obsession, though I am just as passionate about capturing them through the lens. I develop recipes that taste like they simmered all day but are actually achievable for any home cook. I cooked and styled this dish to ensure the flavors are balanced and the presentation inspires you.