Easy Italian Wedding Soup (Authentic Recipe)

Short Description

Italian Wedding Soup is a classic Italian-American dish known for its rich broth, tender meatballs, and vibrant greens. Despite its name, this soup isn’t traditionally served at weddings but instead derives from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which refers to the perfect “marriage” of ingredients. This easy, authentic recipe combines savory meatballs, delicate greens, and tiny pasta for a comforting bowl of warmth that’s simple to prepare yet full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavors: This recipe stays true to the traditional Italian Wedding Soup, balancing rich, homemade meatballs with a light yet flavorful broth.
• Simple and Quick: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for both novice and seasoned cooks.
• Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber, it makes for a wholesome meal that satisfies without being too heavy.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to different dietary preferences with ingredient swaps and variations.

Ingredients

• Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• Italian breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Egg
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Onion, finely chopped
• Carrots, diced
• Celery, chopped
• Chicken broth
• Acini de pepe or orzo pasta
• Fresh spinach or escarole
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and a beaten egg.
2. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated, then shape the mixture into small bite-sized meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown the meatballs in batches. Remove and set aside.

2. Make the Soup Base

1. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
3. Add the browned meatballs back into the pot, allowing them to simmer and infuse the broth with flavor.

3. Cook the Pasta and Greens

1. Stir in the acini de pepe or orzo pasta and let it cook according to package instructions.
2. Once the pasta is nearly done, add the fresh spinach or escarole, letting it wilt into the soup.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and if desired, add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

4. Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Swap out beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute the pasta with a gluten-free alternative.
• Low-Carb: Skip the pasta and add extra greens or zucchini noodles.
• Spicy Kick: Mix red pepper flakes into the meatballs or broth for added heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace meatballs with white beans or plant-based meat alternatives.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Leave out the pasta before freezing, as it can become mushy when reheated.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding extra broth if needed. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Why is it called Italian Wedding Soup?

The name comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which refers to the “marriage” of flavors between the meat and greens.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Acini de pepe and orzo are traditional, but ditalini or small shell pasta work well too.

3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze the meatballs in advance for a quicker cooking process.

4. What’s the best green to use?

Escarole is traditional, but spinach, kale, or Swiss chard are great alternatives.

5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook everything in a slow cooker, adding the pasta and greens in the last 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.

6. Is it possible to use store-bought meatballs?

While homemade meatballs offer the best flavor, store-bought can be used for convenience.

7. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

8. How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?

Cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from absorbing too much broth.

9. What broth works best?

Chicken broth is preferred, but beef or vegetable broth can also be used.

10. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Zucchini, peas, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and variety.

Conclusion

Italian Wedding Soup is a timeless dish that perfectly balances comforting, hearty ingredients with a light, flavorful broth. This easy recipe ensures an authentic experience while remaining flexible for dietary needs and personal preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and enjoy the delicious marriage of flavors in every bite!

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