Looking for a meal that’s both comforting and nutritious? Try this Italian-style soup recipe! Featuring a mouthwatering blend of tender vegetables, flavorful broth, and filling pasta, this dish is perfect for chilly evenings when you need something warming and hearty. But what really makes it stand out are the delicious meatballs, made from a savory blend of ground pork, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and egg. These little bites are cooked right in the soup, infusing it with their delicate texture and rich flavor.
If you’re looking to boost the nutritional content of this recipe, consider adding some fresh kale or spinach to the mix. These greens will not only add some vibrant color to the dish but also provide an extra dose of nutrients to help you feel your best. Regardless of how you customize it, this soup is a must-try for anyone who loves classic Italian flavors and cozy, comforting meals.
So why wait? Grab a bowl, get cozy, and start savoring the deliciousness today! With its blend of satisfying ingredients and irresistible flavors, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Italian Wedding Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup (81.2 g) onion diced
- 1/2 cup (64.9 g) diced carrot
- 1/2 cup (51.2 g) diced celery
- 4 cups (973.8 g) chicken stock
- 1/2 cup (76.1 g) orzo pasta
- 1/2 pound (226.8 g) ground pork
- 1/2 cup (50.7 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (30.4 g) fresh parsley chopped
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat
- Add onion, carrot, and celery and sauté until softened
- Pour in broth and bring to a simmer
- Add pasta and cook until al dente
- In a separate bowl, combine ground pork, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, and salt and pepper
- Roll mixture into small meatballs
- Drop meatballs into simmering soup and let cook until they float to the surface
- Optional: add chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition and color
Notes
2. Dice the vegetables to a small and uniform size to ensure even cooking.
3. Cook the pasta separately and not in the soup to prevent it from becoming too mushy.
4. Season the ground pork mixture generously with salt and pepper to add flavor to the meatballs.
5. Make small meatballs to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
6. Gently drop the meatballs into the soup to prevent them from falling apart.
7. Use chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
8. Stir occasionally to prevent any ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
9. Simmer the soup instead of boiling it to prevent overcooking and retain the flavors.
10. Serve hot and enjoy with a side of fresh bread.
Nutrition
Data source: USDA
Storage Tips
This recipe typically lasts up to 4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. To store, let the soup cool to room temperature first before transferring to a container with a tightly fitting lid.
To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the container or bag. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To defrost, transfer the frozen soup to the fridge overnight. Alternatively, you can defrost it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
When reheating, you can add a little more broth or water to thin out the soup if it has thickened in the fridge or freezer.
Optional: If you want to add spinach or kale, add it during the last few minutes of cooking or just before serving, so they don’t become overcooked and lose their color and nutrients.
Recipe Variations
1. Vegetarian Italian Wedding Soup – substitute the meatballs with vegetarian or vegan meatballs and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
2. Spicy Italian Wedding Soup – add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the broth for a spicy kick.
3. Greek Wedding Soup – use orzo pasta instead of acini di pepe and add lemon juice and feta cheese to the broth.
4. Mexican Wedding Soup – add cumin, chili powder, and diced green chilies to the broth and use tortilla strips instead of pasta.
5. Gluten-free Italian Wedding Soup – use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for the meatballs.
6. Turkey Italian Wedding Soup – use ground turkey instead of ground beef or pork for the meatballs and broth.
7. Asian-inspired Italian Wedding Soup – add ginger, soy sauce, and bok choy to the broth and use rice noodles instead of pasta.
What To Serve With
– Crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the soup
– Parmesan cheese for topping or sprinkling on the soup
– Lemon wedges for squeezing over the soup to add a touch of acidity
– Antipasto platter with cured meats, olives, cheese, and roasted vegetables on the side
– Caesar salad or mixed greens salad with a bright vinaigrette to balance the richer flavors of the soup.
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