This Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful combination of savory meatballs, fresh spinach, and tender pasta swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe is loved by many for its comforting qualities and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this soup will warm hearts and fill bellies!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-Packed: Enjoy the rich taste of homemade meatballs combined with fresh ingredients.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can make this soup without fuss.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it as a starter or as a main dish; it fits any occasion!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean meats, it’s nutritious without sacrificing taste.
- Crock Pot Friendly: You can set it and forget it! Perfect for busy days.
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious Italian Wedding Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and easy stirring of all ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your meatball ingredients thoroughly before shaping them.
- Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup without messy spills.
Ingredients
This classic Italian Wedding Soup recipe has savory meatballs in a flavorful broth with spinach and pasta! It’s easy to make on the stove top or in the crock pot!
For the Meatballs
- 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
For the Soup Base
- 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
For Serving
- ¾ cup acini de pepe pasta (uncooked)
- 4-5 cups fresh spinach
- Salt/pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
How to Make Italian Wedding Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined but do not overmix.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs about one inch in diameter.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in diced carrots and celery; cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Cook the Soup Base
- Pour in chicken broth along with minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil over high heat.
Step 4: Add Meatballs and Pasta
- Gently drop meatballs into boiling broth; reduce heat to medium-low.
- Stir in acini de pepe pasta; simmer for about 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
Step 5: Incorporate Spinach
- Stir in fresh spinach; cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Taste soup; adjust seasonings with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle soup into bowls.
- Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Italian Wedding Soup, perfect for any gathering!
How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you choose to serve it in a casual setting or at a festive gathering, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve warm slices of crusty bread alongside the soup. The bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or basil. This adds a burst of color and enhances the flavors.
With Extra Parmesan
- Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side. Guests can sprinkle as much as they like over their soup for added richness.
In Individual Bowls
- For a more elegant presentation, serve the soup in individual bowls. This is great for gatherings or special occasions.
With a Side Salad
- Pair the soup with a light side salad. A simple mixed greens salad complements the hearty soup well.
As Part of a Larger Meal
- Serve Italian Wedding Soup as an appetizer in a multi-course meal. It pairs nicely with Italian entrees like lasagna or chicken parmesan.
How to Perfect Italian Wedding Soup
To ensure your Italian Wedding Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and vegetables. Fresh ingredients elevate the flavors of your soup significantly.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your broth before serving. You may want to add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
Don’t Overcook Spinach: Add spinach at the end of cooking to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. This keeps it tender yet fresh.
Make Meatballs Ahead: Prepare meatballs in advance and refrigerate them. This saves time on busy days and allows flavors to meld.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:
Garlic Bread: A classic side that adds crunch and flavor, perfect for soaking up broth.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze makes for a delightful starter.
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers provide a bite-sized treat.
Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables pairs well with the soup’s richness.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the flavors of the soup.
Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes served on the side offer an Italian twist that rounds out your meal nicely.
Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice, meat, and spices make for a hearty accompaniment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian Wedding Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs have better flavor and texture. Always use fresh or homemade breadcrumbs for optimal meatballs.
- Overcooking the pasta: The pasta should be al dente since it will continue to cook in the soup. Add it in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Neglecting seasoning: Not seasoning enough can lead to bland soup. Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Skipping the aromatics: Aromatics like garlic and onion are essential for flavor. Sauté them before adding broth to enhance taste.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality broth can affect the overall flavor. Use a good-quality chicken broth for a richer taste.
- Not allowing flavors to meld: Letting the soup sit for a while after cooking allows flavors to develop. Consider letting it rest before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Italian Wedding Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Italian Wedding Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Italian Wedding Soup special?
Italian Wedding Soup is unique due to its blend of savory meatballs, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth, making it both comforting and nutritious.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! You can mix or substitute meats like turkey, chicken, or even sausage according to your preference.
How do I make Italian Wedding Soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace meat with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Is Italian Wedding Soup healthy?
Yes! This soup is packed with lean protein from the meatballs and plenty of vitamins from the vegetables, making it a nutritious option.
Can I prepare Italian Wedding Soup in advance?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it properly and reheat before serving for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Wedding Soup recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Whether served on a chilly evening or at family gatherings, this comforting soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Try making it today!
Italian Wedding Soup
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Italian Wedding Soup, a beloved dish that perfectly marries savory meatballs with fresh spinach and tender pasta in a rich broth. This comforting soup is perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, bringing a delightful blend of flavors to your table. Easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s versatile enough to serve as either a starter or main course. Enjoy this classic Italian recipe that warms both hearts and bellies, making it an instant family favorite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
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 mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Shape into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent; add carrots and celery, cooking until softened.
- Pour in chicken broth, garlic, and Italian seasoning; bring to a boil.
- Drop meatballs into boiling broth; reduce heat to medium-low and add pasta. Simmer until pasta is al dente.
- Stir in fresh spinach until wilted; adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve hot topped with freshly grated Parmesan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
