Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting dish that combines savory meatballs and fresh vegetables in a warm broth. This hearty soup is perfect for family gatherings, regular dinners, or when you need some comfort food. The name may suggest a special occasion, but you can enjoy it any day of the week!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Italian Wedding Soup is a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal packed with flavor. It’s easy to prepare and allows for creativity with ingredients. Plus, the combination of meatballs and vegetables creates a filling dish that everyone will love. It’s also a wonderful way to use up leftover veggies in your fridge!
How to Make Italian Wedding Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or pork, or turkey)
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped or minced/grated
- 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan cheese), grated
- 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients and mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the meatballs to the boiling broth and cook until they are cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add the carrots, celery, and onion to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup
Serve Italian Wedding Soup hot in bowls. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs nicely with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Italian Wedding Soup
You can store leftover Italian Wedding Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
Tips to Make Italian Wedding Soup
- Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have at home.
- For a little kick, add more red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce.
- You can also add pasta to the soup for extra heartiness; just cook the pasta separately and add it before serving.
Variation
If you want a lighter version, you can use ground turkey instead of beef or pork. For a vegetarian option, skip the meatballs and add more vegetables and beans to the broth.
FAQs
1. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook the soup.
2. Is it okay to use frozen spinach?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works well in this recipe; just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.
3. Can I use different types of broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth or beef broth if you prefer different flavors. Just keep in mind it may alter the overall taste of the soup.
Enjoy making this delightful Italian Wedding Soup! It’s a family favorite that is sure to warm hearts and tummies alike.
