This Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful mix of savory meatballs, fresh spinach, and tender pasta in a flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, this soup brings a classic Italian taste to your table. The combination of ingredients makes it not only comforting but also nutritious, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time!
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Make it on the stove top for a quick meal or use the crock pot for an easy, hands-off option.
- Packed with Flavor: The blend of herbs and spices elevates the taste, making every spoonful a delight.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and lean meats, this soup offers a wholesome meal for the whole family.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you prepare your Italian Wedding Soup efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the broth and cooking the meatballs evenly.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients when making meatballs to ensure they are well-mixed.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantee accurate measurements for perfect flavor balance in your soup.
- Ladle: A handy tool for serving your delicious soup without spilling.
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!
Ingredients:
– 1 Tablespoon olive oil
– ½ lb. ground beef (85% lean)
– ½ lb. ground pork
– 1 egg (beaten)
– 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
– ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/3 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)
How to Make Italian Wedding Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined but do not overwork the mixture.
- Shape into small meatballs about one inch in diameter.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and additional minced garlic; sauté until vegetables are soft.
Step 3: Cook Meatballs
- Add chicken broth to the pot along with Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a gentle boil; then carefully add meatballs one at a time.
- Reduce heat to simmer and cook for about 15 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Spinach
- Stir in acini de pepe pasta; cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Add fresh spinach just before serving; let it wilt into the soup.
Step 5: Serve Your Soup
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Italian Wedding Soup! It’s sure to become a new favorite in your home!
How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve warm slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the savory broth.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a flavorful twist that complements the soup.
With Salad
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crisp romaine add a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a healthy and vibrant accompaniment.
As an Appetizer
- Small Bowls: Serve small bowls of Italian Wedding Soup as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Shot Glasses: For a fun presentation, serve portions in shot glasses for guests to enjoy as they mingle.
Garnished with Extra Ingredients
- Extra Parmesan: Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle on top.
- Chili Flakes: Provide chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their soup.
How to Perfect Italian Wedding Soup
Perfecting your Italian Wedding Soup can elevate it from good to great. Consider these tips for the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance flavor.
- Make Meatballs from Scratch: Homemade meatballs offer superior taste and texture compared to store-bought options.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your broth before serving and adjust salt and pepper to ensure balanced flavor.
- Cook Pasta Separately: Cook acini de pepe pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Wedding Soup
Pairing side dishes with Italian Wedding Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas that complement its flavors perfectly.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil adds freshness.
- Caprese Salad: Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze deliver vibrant flavors.
- Risotto Balls (Arancini): Crispy risotto balls provide a delightful crunch alongside the soup.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an excellent bite-sized treat.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrition to the table.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables offers variety.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins balance the savory notes of the soup perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian Wedding Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.
- Using dry meatballs: If your meatballs are too dry, make sure to add enough moisture from the egg and cheese. You can also soak the breadcrumbs in milk for added softness.
- Not seasoning properly: Failing to season at each step can lead to bland soup. Season your broth and vegetables lightly throughout the cooking process for better flavor.
- Overcooking spinach: Spinach should be added at the end to keep its vibrant color and nutrients. Stir it in just before serving for the best texture.
- Ignoring pasta cooking time: Cooking pasta separately prevents overcooking it in the soup. This way, your pasta stays al dente and doesn’t absorb all the broth.
- Skipping homemade broth: Store-bought broth can lack flavor. If possible, use homemade chicken broth for a richer taste in your Italian Wedding Soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Italian Wedding Soup
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Italian Wedding Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Italian Wedding Soup.
What is Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty dish made with flavorful meatballs, greens, and small pasta in a savory broth. Despite its name, it’s not traditionally served at weddings; it refers to the marriage of flavors.
Can I make Italian Wedding Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute meatballs with plant-based options or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I store leftover Italian Wedding Soup?
Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage of up to 3 months.
Can I use other greens instead of spinach?
Absolutely! Kale or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives. They offer similar nutrition and flavor profiles.
Is Italian Wedding Soup easy to make?
Yes! This recipe is straightforward and requires basic ingredients. It’s perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Wedding Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or protein options based on your preferences. Try this delightful recipe today, and enjoy a warm bowl that brings joy and satisfaction!
Italian Wedding Soup
Indulge in a warm bowl of Italian Wedding Soup, a classic dish that combines savory meatballs, vibrant spinach, and tender pasta in a rich chicken broth. This cozy soup is not only perfect for family dinners but also lends itself beautifully to special occasions. With its blend of fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs, each spoonful bursts with flavor and comfort. Quick to prepare and versatile in cooking methods—stovetop or crock pot—this Italian Wedding Soup is sure to become a cherished favorite in your household.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ½ lb. ground beef
- 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)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ¾ cup acini de pepe pasta (uncooked)
- 4–5 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined and form into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and additional garlic until softened.
- Add chicken broth and Italian seasoning; bring to a gentle boil. Carefully add meatballs and reduce heat to simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in acini de pepe pasta and cook per package instructions until al dente. Add spinach before serving to wilt.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot with grated Parmesan on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
