If you’re seeking a heartwarming dish that embodies comfort and rich flavors, look no further than Italian Wedding Soup. This delightful blend of tender meatballs, vibrant greens, and flavorful broth not only warms the soul but also brings a touch of Italy to your dining table. It’s a beloved classic, often enjoyed at celebrations, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.
Moreover, the beauty of this Italian soup lies in its versatility. Whether you’re craving a hearty family dinner or a light, nourishing option, the marriage of ingredients in this fantastic dish will surely satisfy. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of this charming soup, perfect for both casual and festive occasions!
A Brief History of Italian Wedding Soup:
The roots of Italian Wedding Soup trace back to Italian-American communities, particularly in the Northeastern United States. Despite its name, this delightful soup does not originate from weddings. Instead, the term “wedding” refers to the harmonious blending of flavors between the meatballs and greens. Traditionally, the soup features small meatballs alongside hearty greens like escarole or spinach, all simmered in a robust broth.
Originating from Italy’s rustic kitchens, variations have sprouted across the globe. In fact, it’s reminiscent of many comforting soups, such as Crockpot Minestrone Soup, which also highlight simple ingredients to create heartwarming dishes. As Italian Wedding Soup evolved, cooks began incorporating additional ingredients, enhancing its nutritional profile while maintaining its traditional essence.
Ultimately, Italian Wedding Soup represents a culinary celebration—a reunion of flavors that invites you to enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful dish, combining savory flavors and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Meatballs:
– ½ lb. ground beef (85% lean)
– ½ lb. ground pork
– 1 egg, beaten
– ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
– ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– ⅓ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
– ¾ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon pepper
For the Soup:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 1 ¼ cups carrots, diced
– 2 celery ribs, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– ¾ cup acini de pepe pasta, uncooked
– 4-5 cups fresh spinach
– Salt and pepper, to taste
To Garnish:
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
This cozy soup is perfect for chilly days. If you’re looking for something equally fulfilling, you might enjoy my Hearty Vegetable Barley Soup.
Prepare to enjoy a nourishing bowl of Italian Wedding Soup that warms the heart and soul!
How to Prepare Italian Wedding Soup:
To begin making this delicious Italian Wedding Soup, start by preparing the meatballs. In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, a beaten egg, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form small meatballs, about one inch in diameter. Next, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until tender, approximately 5-7 minutes. Then, add chicken broth and Italian seasoning; bring to a gentle simmer.
Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering broth and cook until they are fully cooked, around 10-15 minutes. Stir in the acini de pepe pasta and cook until al dente. Finally, fold in fresh spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste. To enhance your bowl, serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. For more comforting soup recipes, check out this delightful overview of Hearty Vegetable Barley Soup. For a more in-depth Italian Wedding Soup recipe, visit The Cozy Cook. Enjoy this classic dish that warms the heart!
Common Variations of Italian Wedding Soup:
Italian Wedding Soup is cherished for its versatility, allowing cooks to adapt the recipe according to their preferences. One popular variation features quinoa instead of pasta, making it a hearty and nutritious choice. This substitution not only enhances the texture but also adds a protein boost. Another crowd-pleaser includes the addition of spinach or kale, providing extra vitamins and a vibrant color for a healthier twist.
Additionally, some recipes incorporate different meats such as Italian sausage or turkey for a unique flavor profile. For those looking to explore more soup varieties, consider trying a comforting option like the Homemade Chicken Soup. The Chicken Soup can serve as a base to experiment with flavors and ingredients similar to Italian Wedding Soup. No matter the variation, Italian Wedding Soup remains a delightful dish perfect for any occasion.
Nutritional Benefits of Italian Wedding Soup:
Italian Wedding Soup offers a delightful blend of flavors while packing a nutritional punch. This hearty dish typically contains lean meatballs, leafy greens, and wholesome broth, making it a balanced meal. The lean proteins from turkey or chicken meatballs provide essential amino acids for muscle health and recovery. Additionally, the greens, often spinach or escarole, are rich in vitamins A and C, along with iron and fiber, which support overall health and digestion.
Moreover, the broth serves as a low-calorie foundation, keeping the soup light and comforting. For those looking to boost their vegetable intake, pairing this dish with a Hearty Vegetable Barley Soup can help further enhance the nutritional profile. This combination not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the body. Italian Wedding Soup is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, ensuring everyone enjoys both its flavor and health benefits.
Storage Tips:
To keep your Italian Wedding Soup fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer preservation, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags; this soup can last up to three months. Reheating gently on the stovetop can help maintain its flavor, much like a warming bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful dish that combines flavorful meatballs, fresh greens, and tiny pasta in a savory broth. While often mistaken as part of actual wedding ceremonies, the name originates from the “marriage” of flavors and textures in this hearty soup.
What ingredients are typically used in Italian Wedding Soup?
Common ingredients include small meatballs, spinach or escarole, carrots, onions, garlic, and a nutritious chicken broth. You might also find tiny pasta, such as acini di pepe, which adds a lovely texture to the dish.
Can I make Italian Wedding Soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! For a convenient way to prepare this dish, try making it in a slow cooker. You can combine your meatballs and other ingredients early in the day for a warm, comforting meal by dinner. For a related recipe, check out our Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup for more easy cooking inspiration.
Is Italian Wedding Soup healthy?
Yes! This soup is not only delicious but can also be quite nutritious. The ingredients like leafy greens, lean meatballs, and broth create a low-calorie, high-protein meal that offers vitamins and minerals.
How can I store leftover Italian Wedding Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just be sure to store the meatballs separately if they become soggy.
Can I customize the recipe?
Definitely! You can personalize your Italian Wedding Soup by incorporating different vegetables or using turkey or beef for the meatballs. This flexibility allows you to create a version that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Print
Italian Wedding Soup: Comfort in Every Spoonful
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and delicate pasta in a savory chicken broth, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 Tablespoon olive oil
½ lb. ground beef
85% lean
½ lb. ground pork
1 egg
beaten
½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
¼ cup Parmesan cheese
grated
3 cloves garlic
minced
⅓ cup fresh parsley
finely chopped
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 yellow onion
diced
1 ¼ cups carrots
diced
2 celery ribs
diced
3 cloves garlic
minced
8 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
¾ cup acini de pepe pasta
uncooked
4–5 cups fresh spinach
salt/pepper
to taste
Parmesan cheese
freshly grated
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
- In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir in Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add acini de pepe pasta and meatballs back to the pot. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or kale for more nutritional value. Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Soup
- Method: soup
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 890 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
Keywords: Italian Wedding Soup, meatballs, soup, chicken broth, acini de pepe, spinach, homemade