Introduction to BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to preparing meals. That’s why I’m excited to share my BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup with you! This delightful dish is not just a quick solution for a hectic day; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Imagine flavorful meatballs swimming in a savory broth, surrounded by vibrant greens and tender pasta. It’s the perfect way to impress your loved ones while keeping your kitchen time to a minimum. Trust me, this soup will become a cherished favorite in your home!
Why You’ll Love This BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup
This soup is a true lifesaver for busy days! It’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor that warms the soul. The combination of tender meatballs, fresh greens, and hearty broth creates a comforting meal that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your family’s tastes. You’ll find yourself making this soup again and again, and your loved ones will thank you for it!
Ingredients for BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground beef: This adds a rich flavor and hearty texture to the meatballs.
- Ground pork: A touch of pork enhances the meatballs’ juiciness and depth.
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together while keeping them tender.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this cheese brings a savory, nutty flavor to the mix.
- Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Egg: This acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape.
- Garlic powder: A dash of garlic powder infuses the meatballs with aromatic goodness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the soup.
- Chicken broth: A quality broth is the heart of this soup, providing a flavorful base.
- Fresh spinach: This leafy green adds nutrition and a vibrant color to the dish.
- Diced carrots: Sweet and crunchy, they bring a lovely texture and sweetness.
- Diced celery: Celery adds a subtle earthiness and crunch to the soup.
- Small pasta (like acini di pepe): These tiny pasta shapes soak up the broth beautifully.
- Additional Parmesan cheese: For serving, this adds an extra layer of flavor.
Feel free to get creative! You can swap out ground beef and pork for lean ground turkey for a healthier option. If you have other veggies on hand, like zucchini or green beans, toss them in for added nutrition. Remember, the exact quantities are at the bottom of the article for your convenience!
How to Make BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making the BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands until well combined. Don’t be shy; this is where the magic happens! Form the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter. This size ensures they cook evenly and fit perfectly in your soup.
Step 2: Boil the Broth
Next, grab a large pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Using quality broth is crucial here; it’s the foundation of your soup’s flavor. If you can, opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness. Once it’s bubbling away, you’re ready for the next step!
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Carefully add the meatballs to the boiling broth. Let them cook for about 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the top and are no longer pink inside. This step fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking, “What’s for dinner?”
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Now it’s time to add the diced carrots and celery. Toss them into the pot and let them cook for an additional 5 minutes. This timing is key; you want the veggies to be tender but still have a bit of crunch. They’ll add a lovely texture and sweetness to your soup.
Step 5: Incorporate Pasta
Next, stir in the small pasta, like acini di pepe. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8 minutes, until it’s al dente. This tiny pasta will soak up the broth beautifully, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t get too soft!
Step 6: Finish with Spinach
Finally, add the fresh spinach to the pot. Cook it for about 2 minutes, just until it wilts. This step adds a vibrant green color and a boost of nutrition. Once the spinach is ready, your BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup is complete! Serve it hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; it makes a world of difference!
- Don’t overcrowd the pot when cooking meatballs; give them space to cook evenly.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the dish.
- Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving; it allows the flavors to meld.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; it reheats beautifully!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: A sturdy stockpot works best, but any large pot will do.
- Mixing bowl: Use a medium-sized bowl for combining meatball ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spoon or spatula: For stirring the soup and serving.
- Slotted spoon: Handy for removing meatballs from the broth.
Variations of BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup
- Lean Turkey Meatballs: Swap ground beef and pork for lean ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace meatballs with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth for a hearty plant-based soup.
- Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup
- Pair with crusty Italian bread or garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- For drinks, a light white wine or sparkling water complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish each bowl with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a lovely presentation.
FAQs about BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I substitute for the small pasta?
If you can’t find acini di pepe, feel free to use any small pasta shape like orzo or ditalini. They’ll work just as well and soak up the delicious broth!
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! If you use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free, the BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup can be a delightful option for those avoiding gluten.
How can I make this soup spicier?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust the amount to your taste for the perfect heat level!
Final Thoughts
Making the BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. Each spoonful is a warm embrace, filled with love and comfort. This recipe is perfect for busy nights, yet it feels special enough for gatherings. I hope it brings joy to your home, just as it has to mine. So, gather your loved ones, share a bowl, and savor the delightful flavors together. Trust me, this soup will become a cherished tradition, warming hearts and filling bellies for years to come!
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BEST EVER Italian Wedding Soup: A Flavorful Delight!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and hearty Italian Wedding Soup that combines flavorful meatballs, fresh greens, and a savory broth for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup small pasta (like acini di pepe)
- Additional Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
- In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs to the boiling broth and cook for about 10 minutes.
- Add diced carrots and celery, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Stir in the small pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes.
- Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- For a healthier version, use lean ground turkey instead of beef and pork.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or green beans.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg