Delightful Italian Wedding Soup: Meatballs, Greens & Pasta

Italian Wedding SoupPhoto byRecipe Formula

Italian Wedding Soup is a classic dish that beautifully marries tender meatballs, hearty greens, and tiny pasta in a flavorful broth.

Get the Recipe Details: Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup small pasta (like acini di pepe or orzo)
• 6 ounces fresh spinach, chopped (or escarole)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs:
2. • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
   • Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
4. • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set them aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables:
6. • In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
7. Build the Soup:
8. • Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
   • Once the pasta is nearly cooked, return the meatballs to the pot. Stir in the chopped spinach and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the meatballs are cooked through.
9. Season and Serve:
10. • Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Conclusion

Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful combination of tender meatballs, savory broth, and nutritious greens, making it a perfect dish for any meal. Whether you're looking for a comforting lunch or a hearty dinner, this soup offers a balance of flavors and textures that are both satisfying and wholesome. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of Parmesan and some fresh herbs for a taste of Italy in every spoonful.