Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and small pasta simmered in a savory broth. The “wedding” in its name refers to the perfect “marriage” of flavors rather than an actual ceremony. This soup is wholesome, nutritious, and perfect for any time of year!
📋 Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef 🥩
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs 🍞
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 large egg 🥚
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
- Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 🛢️
- 1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced 🥕
- 2 celery stalks, chopped 🌿
- 8 cups chicken broth 🍲
- 3/4 cup small pasta (such as acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini) 🍝
- 4 cups baby spinach or kale, roughly chopped 🌿
- Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving 🧀
📝 Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
- Mix the meatball ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the meatballs:
- Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet or plate and set aside.
2. Cook the Soup:
- Sauté the vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the meatballs:
- Gently add the meatballs to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Cook the pasta:
- Add the small pasta to the soup and continue to simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
3. Add the Greens:
- Stir in the spinach:
- Add the chopped spinach (or kale) to the soup and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season:
- Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
4. Serve:
- Ladle into bowls:
- Serve the Italian Wedding Soup hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 30 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 45 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4-6 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal per serving
This Italian Wedding Soup is warm, nourishing, and full of delightful flavors. The combination of tender meatballs, savory broth, and fresh greens makes it a family favorite. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal! 🍲🌿🧀