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Italian Wedding Soup

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Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender meatballs, leafy greens, and delicate pasta in a savory broth. This traditional Italian-American favorite is perfect for any occasion, offering a warm and satisfying meal with every spoonful.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • ½ pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Soup:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup small pasta (like acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini)
  • 3 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped
  • 1 large carrot, diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  • Prepare the Meatballs:

    • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
    • Mix until well combined and form into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). Set aside.

  • Cook the Soup Base:

    • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
    • Add diced onion and cook until soft (about 3 minutes).
    • Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Simmer the Broth:

    • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
    • Add the diced carrot and reduce to a simmer.

  • Cook the Meatballs:

    • Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering broth.
    • Let them cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Add Pasta and Greens:

    • Stir in the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes).
    • When the pasta is almost done, add the chopped spinach (or escarole) and let it wilt.

  • Season and Serve:

    • Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
    • Stir in fresh parsley and serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meatball option.
  • Substitute spinach with escarole or kale for a different texture.
  • Make it ahead: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Find it online: https://avarecipe.com/italian-wedding-soup/