Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that combines tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and tiny pasta in a savory broth. Despite its name, this soup isn’t traditionally served at weddings but rather refers to the “marriage” of flavors in the soup. Here’s how you can make this classic soup at home.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup acini de pepe or orzo pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside.
- Cook the Meatballs: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add the Pasta and Meatballs: Add the acini de pepe or orzo pasta to the pot and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Return the meatballs to the pot and simmer until they are cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs? A: Yes, you can use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef and pork. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meatballs are fully cooked.
Q: What other vegetables can I add to the soup? A: You can add a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, kale, or even peas. Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables.
Q: Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, cook the soup as directed.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup? A: Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with Italian Wedding Soup? A: This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad. It’s a hearty meal on its own but can be complemented with these sides.
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious Italian Wedding Soup at home! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. Happy cooking!