There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Italian Wedding Soup that instantly wraps you in a cozy embrace. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as tender meatballs mingle with vibrant greens and savory broth. This delightful dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms your heart and fills your belly.
I remember the first time I tried making this soup—it was a chilly evening, and I was determined to impress my friends with my culinary skills. Spoiler alert: they were impressed! The laughter and joy we shared over that bubbling pot made it clear that this soup is meant for gatherings, warm evenings, or simply when you need a hug in a bowl.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Italian Wedding Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Packed with flavor from fresh herbs and juicy meatballs, every spoonful is a taste sensation
- Its colorful presentation brightens any dinner table and can be customized depending on what you have in your pantry
- Ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers!
My friends couldn’t stop raving about how flavorful the broth was and how they felt like they were dining at a fancy restaurant without having to leave the comfort of my home.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Leaner than traditional beef or pork, these meats keep the meatballs light and flavorful.
- Fresh Spinach or Kale: Choose vibrant green leaves that will add both nutrition and color to your soup.
- Carrots: Diced carrots provide sweetness and texture; pick firm ones for the best results.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese will enhance the broth’s flavor—avoid powdered versions if possible!
- Onion: Use a sweet onion for subtle flavor; sauté until translucent for optimal aroma.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are non-negotiable; they infuse your broth with mouthwatering depth.
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your dish.
- Dried Oregano and Basil: These herbs add traditional Italian flavors—don’t skimp on them!
- Pasta (such as Acini di Pepe): Tiny pasta shapes are perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare yourself for an adventure in flavor as we embark on this cooking journey together.
Start by Making Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey or chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Roll into small meatballs about one inch wide.
Sauté Vegetables’ Aromas: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté finely chopped onions and diced carrots until softened—about 5 minutes—until they release their sweet aromas.
Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. It should smell heavenly by now!
Add Broth: Pour in chicken broth along with dried oregano and basil. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; let those flavors party together for about 10 minutes.
Add Meatballs: Carefully drop the meatballs into the bubbling broth. Allow them to cook gently for about 15-20 minutes until they are fully cooked through.
Add Greens and Pasta: Stir in fresh spinach (or kale) along with pasta; cook according to package instructions until the pasta is al dente. Don’t be afraid to taste—adjust seasoning if necessary!
Now that you’ve made this delightful Italian Wedding Soup from scratch, take a moment to appreciate your creation before serving it up hot!
This heartwarming dish is sure to become one of your favorites!
You Must Know
- Italian Wedding Soup is a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for cozy gatherings
- Its rich flavors and textures will remind you of family dinners, and the vibrant colors make it visually appealing
- Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your pantry staples!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the meatballs while heating the broth. Once boiling, add greens and pasta to complete your soup.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap spinach for kale or use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for varied flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a flavor boost
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente
- Always taste before serving; seasoning can make a huge difference!
Cooking this Italian Wedding Soup reminds me of chilly Sundays spent with my grandma, who always insisted that love was the secret ingredient in her kitchen.
FAQ
What is Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian Wedding Soup combines meatballs, vegetables, and a savory broth for a comforting meal.
Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.
What types of greens work best in Italian Wedding Soup?
Spinach and kale are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with others like Swiss chard.
Delightful Italian Wedding Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Experience the heartwarming flavors of Italian Wedding Soup, a comforting blend of savory meatballs, vibrant greens, and aromatic broth that warms both body and soul.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey or chicken
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 cup diced carrots
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp dried basil
- ¾ cup small pasta (like Acini di Pepe)
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground turkey or chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs (about one inch wide).
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and diced carrots for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth along with dried oregano and basil. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Carefully add meatballs into the bubbling broth and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked through.
- Stir in fresh spinach (or kale) and pasta; cook according to package instructions until pasta is al dente. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute spinach with kale or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Fresh herbs elevate flavors; consider adding parsley as a garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg