Name: Italian Wedding Soup
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 0.5 lb ground beef 85% lean; 0.5 lb ground pork; 1 large egg, beaten; 0.5 cup Italian breadcrumbs; 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 0.33 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 0.75 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon pepper; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 1.25 cups carrots, diced; 2 ribs celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 0.75 cup acini de pepe pasta, uncooked; 4-5 cups fresh spinach; salt/pepper to taste; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Introduction to Italian Wedding Soup

If you’re searching for a cozy, heartwarming meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than Italian Wedding Soup! This delightful dish is a fantastic option for any weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. The name might make you think of nuptials, but this soup is all about layers of flavor, from tender, homemade meatballs to the robust broth that brings everything together.

Why Italian Wedding Soup is the Perfect Homemade Meal

This classic dish is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. With its mix of savory meatballs, fresh spinach, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, Italian Wedding Soup offers a well-rounded meal in just one bowl. Plus, it's perfect for meal prep! You can easily cook a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making it an excellent option for young professionals juggling busy schedules.

What really sets this soup apart is its rich history and cultural roots in Italian-American cuisine. According to culinary tradition, the components symbolize the union of flavors — much like a wedding itself. So, whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, each spoonful is a celebration of comfort and joy. Ready to get started? Let's make some delicious Italian Wedding Soup!

For a deeper dive into this dish and its cultural significance, check out sources like Saveur and Serious Eats.

Ingredients for Italian Wedding Soup

Essential ingredients for the meatballs

Creating the perfect meatballs is a vital part of making Italian Wedding Soup. Here's what you'll need:

½ lb. ground beef 85% lean: This provides a rich flavor.
½ lb. ground pork: Adds juiciness and depth to each bite.
1 egg, beaten: Acts as a binder.
½ cup Italian breadcrumbs: For texture and flavor.
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: A must for that authentic Italian taste.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor.
⅓ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: For freshness.
¾ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper: To season perfectly.

Main ingredients for the soup

Now, let’s bring everything together. The soup portion is where the magic truly unfolds:

1 yellow onion, diced
1 ¼ cups carrots, diced
2 celery ribs, diced
3 more cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: For that aromatic touch.
¾ cup acini de pepe pasta: Perfect little pasta for the soup.
4-5 cups fresh spinach: Nutritional powerhouse.

Garnishes and optional additions

A few finishing touches will elevate your Italian Wedding Soup:

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Always a welcome sight!
Hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or mustard powder: Optional for an extra flavor kick.

With these ingredients at hand, you're well on your way to serving a delightful and warming dish that brings families together. Looking for more tips? Check out websites like Food Network for variations and serving suggestions!

Preparing Italian Wedding Soup

Making Italian Wedding Soup is quite an enjoyable culinary adventure! This comforting soup combines savory meatballs, vibrant veggies, and tender pasta, creating the perfect cozy meal. Let’s walk through this delightful process step by step!

Step 1: Prepare the meatball mixture

To start, you’ll want to create the perfect meatball mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine:

½ lb. ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
½ lb. ground pork
1 beaten egg
½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 minced cloves of garlic
⅓ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper

Gently mix these ingredients with your hands, being careful not to overwork the mixture. Once combined, roll the mixture into meatballs about ¾ inch in diameter. This small size makes them perfectly bite-sized for your soup!

Step 2: Brown the meatballs

In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, brown the meatballs in batches for about 2 minutes, until they are golden on the outside. They’ll finish cooking in the soup later, so don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this stage. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables

In the same pot, it’s time for the vegetables to shine! Sauté 1 diced yellow onion, 1 ¼ cups diced carrots, and 2 diced celery ribs over medium heat. Stir them for about 6 minutes until they start to soften. If needed, feel free to add a splash more olive oil during cooking to prevent sticking. Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional minute to release those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Combine ingredients and simmer

Next, pour in 8 cups of chicken broth and bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. This is the base of your flavorful soup! Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the pot and allow everything to simmer together so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add pasta and spinach

While your soup is simmering, bring a separate pot of water to a boil and cook ¾ cup of acini de pepe pasta until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set aside—this prevents it from soaking up too much broth if you have any leftovers!

After simmering for about 10 minutes, stir in 4-5 cups of fresh spinach until it wilts, which should take around 2 minutes.

Now, you’re ready to ladle your delicious Italian Wedding Soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan. It’s time to enjoy this savory delight with your loved ones!

For more tips and variations on this recipe, feel free to check out The Cozy Cookbook for additional inspiration!

Variations on Italian Wedding Soup

If you love the classic flavors of Italian Wedding Soup, don’t hesitate to mix things up a bit! Here are a couple of variations that can take your soup experience to new heights:

Swap Out for Turkey or Chicken Meatballs

You can easily lighten up your Italian Wedding Soup by substituting ground beef with turkey or chicken. These alternatives not only make the meatballs a bit heart-healthier but also add a different flavor profile. A combination of lean turkey and herbs can create a delightful twist you won't soon forget.

Use Different Types of Pasta

While acini de pepe is traditional, don't shy away from experimenting with pasta shapes! Options like orzo, ditalini, or even small shells can bring out new textures. The different pasta types will give your soup a fresh take while still keeping it comforting. Check out reputable pasta brands for quality recommendations.

Incorporating your personal touch into this timeless recipe makes it even more enjoyable!

Cooking tips and notes for Italian Wedding Soup

Best techniques for meatball size

When it comes to meatballs for your Italian Wedding Soup, size matters! Aim for about ¾-inch balls—this ensures they cook perfectly in the broth without becoming too dense. A helpful tip is to lightly oil your hands to keep the meat from sticking while rolling. If you prefer larger meatballs, just remember they’ll need a little extra cooking time.

Flavor enhancers to consider

Elevating the flavors in your Italian Wedding Soup is simple with a few smart additions. Consider incorporating 1 teaspoon of hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or mustard powder when you mix in the Italian seasoning. These won't overpower the dish but will elevate the taste beautifully. Fresh herbs, like thyme or basil, can also add a wonderful aroma and depth. Just be sure to balance these flavors with a touch of salt and pepper for a rounded finish!

For more insights on meatball preparation, check out this article on the best practices for meatballs.

Serving Suggestions for Italian Wedding Soup

Pairing with Crusty Bread

One of the simplest pleasures when enjoying Italian Wedding Soup is serving it alongside a slice of warm, crusty bread. Consider No Knead Bread, which has a delightful texture perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth. Not only does it enhance the meal, but it also offers a satisfying contrast to the tender meatballs and vibrant spinach.

Ideal Side Dishes and Accompaniments

To round out your meal, think about adding:

Garlic breadsticks: A crunchy, buttery complement to the soup.
Mixed greens salad: Tossed lightly with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.
Parmesan crisps: These add a savory crunch and a delightful cheese flavor.

For a little extra flair, serve a light dessert like Italian gelato or cannoli—perfect for a cozy gathering!

By incorporating these suggestions, your Italian Wedding Soup experience will be truly delightful.

Time Details for Italian Wedding Soup

Preparation Time

This Italian Wedding Soup is simple to whip up, with a preparation time of just 25 minutes. This gives you plenty of time to gather your ingredients and chop your veggies, ensuring everything is prepped and ready for cooking.

Cooking Time

After you’ve prepped, the cooking time takes another 25 minutes. This quick cook time allows the flavors to meld beautifully without keeping you in the kitchen for hours!

Total Time

In just 50 minutes, you can savor the comforting goodness of homemade Italian Wedding Soup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a hearty meal that warms your soul.

For additional cooking tips, check out this Guide to Soup Making to elevate your skills further!

Nutritional Information for Italian Wedding Soup

Calories per serving

A comforting bowl of Italian Wedding Soup comes in at approximately 328 calories per serving. This makes it a satisfying yet nutritious choice, ideal for those cozy nights or when you're meal prepping for the week ahead.

Protein content

Each serving is packed with about 24 grams of protein, thanks to the delicious meatballs made from a blend of beef and pork. This protein content is excellent for muscle repair and overall health, keeping you energized and full longer.

Key vitamin information

This nourishing soup is not just tasty, but it also provides essential vitamins! With the addition of spinach, carrots, and onions, you can expect a good dose of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and several B vitamins. Including greens like spinach can boost your iron levels and support immune function.

For more information on the benefits of leafy greens, check out sources like Healthline. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

FAQs about Italian Wedding Soup

How should I store leftovers?

If you find yourself with any leftover Italian Wedding Soup, you can easily store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just remember to keep the pasta separate if you anticipate leftovers, as it can absorb the broth, altering the soup's texture.

Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?

Absolutely! This soup is great for freezing. Portion it without the pasta and store it in airtight containers for up to 3-4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Boil fresh pasta to add just before serving for the best experience.

What if I don’t have acini di pepe?

Don't worry! While acini di pepe is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with other small pasta varieties like ditalini or even orzo. Each will lend its unique texture to the soup, so feel free to use what you have on hand. Additionally, consider checking local Italian markets or grocery stores for specialty pastas.

For more tips on storing soup, check out this guide on Simply Recipes for further advice!

Conclusion on Italian Wedding Soup

Embracing homemade meals like Italian Wedding Soup brings warmth and comfort to your table. Not only is this recipe a delight for the palate, but it's also a chance to bond with loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and savor the joy of sharing delicious meals!

Final Thoughts on Embracing Homemade Meals

As you dive into making this Italian Wedding Soup, remember that cooking at home not only nourishes the body but strengthens connections with those around you. Homemade meals can be a fulfilling escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They allow you to explore new ingredients, spark creativity, and share culinary traditions with family and friends. Plus, there’s a unique satisfaction that comes from crafting a dish from scratch, using fresh ingredients, and knowing exactly what’s in your meal.

So why not gather your friends or family for a cooking night? You can chat, laugh, and create delightful memories together while whipping up this cozy soup. As you immerse yourself in the process, the rewards will go far beyond just the delicious bowl of soup—it's about the love, joy, and memories shared in the kitchen.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider trying different variations of Italian Wedding Soup, substituting in your favorite greens or proteins to make it your own. Enjoy the journey of cooking!