Imagine a festive gathering around an inviting kitchen table, topped with a checkered tablecloth and filled with laughter and the aroma of a bubbling pot. This scene resonates deeply with the Italian Wedding Soup – a symbol of family bonding, warmth, and the joy of sharing a homemade meal. With tiny meatballs, fresh greens, and delightful pasta pearls swimming in a savory broth, this soup not only satisfies your palate but also your soul. Easy to prepare and loaded with flavors, it’s a dish that turns any meal into a special occasion.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta (such as acini di pepe or orzo)
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
- In a bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and shape into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Once the broth is boiling, carefully drop the meatballs into the pot. Stir gently.
- Add the pasta and let the soup simmer until the pasta is cooked and the meatballs are cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped spinach or escarole and cook for another 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
- Season the soup with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.
Helpful Tips and Variations
For a richer flavor, you can use a mix of ground beef and pork for the meatballs. If you’re short on time, store-bought meatballs are a convenient alternative. Feel free to substitute kale or Swiss chard if you prefer different greens. To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
Storage Instructions
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Pairings
Pair this Italian Wedding Soup with a fresh Italian salad and crusty garlic bread. For a beverage, a crisp white wine or a glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon perfectly complements the flavors.
We hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your family dinner table, just as it does to ours. We can’t wait to see your creations! Share your delightful meals by using #ZynahzRecipes or tagging us on Instagram. Your feedback means the world to us, so please leave your reviews at Zynahz. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more inspiring recipes and follow us on social media for daily updates. Happy cooking!
