Italian Wedding Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. This dish combines tender, homemade meatballs with a savory, rich broth, fresh spinach, and small pasta. It’s a satisfying, cozy meal that will warm you up from the inside out. Not only is it delicious, but it’s easy to prepare and makes for great leftovers. The addition of Parmesan cheese brings a burst of flavor, while the fresh parsley adds a touch of color and brightness. This hearty soup is a great way to enjoy a classic Italian dish in the comfort of your own home.
Full recipe:
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Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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8 cups chicken broth
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1 cup water
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1 cup small pasta (like orzo or acini di pepe)
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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6 ounces ground beef
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6 ounces ground pork
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1/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs
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1 large egg
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh spinach leaves
Directions:
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In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 7-8 minutes until the pasta is tender.
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Meanwhile, prepare the meatballs: In a bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, then shape into small meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter).
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Drop the meatballs gently into the boiling soup. Once all meatballs are added, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.
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Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Italian Wedding Soup: A Deliciously Cozy Classic
Italian Wedding Soup is a timeless, heartwarming dish that combines tender meatballs, fresh greens, and a flavorful broth. It’s a staple in Italian-American households and is known for its comforting qualities. While the name might suggest it’s a dish made for weddings, it actually refers to the “wedding” of ingredients—meatballs and greens—coming together in a flavorful, aromatic soup. This dish is popular not only for its incredible taste but also for its versatility and nutritional benefits.
The Origins of Italian Wedding Soup
The origins of Italian Wedding Soup are somewhat clouded, as with many traditional recipes. It’s believed to have originated in Southern Italy, but the version we know today was popularized in Italian-American communities. The term “wedding” in the dish’s name comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which translates to “married soup.” This refers to the harmonious marriage of the rich flavors of meatballs and the freshness of leafy greens like spinach, escarole, or kale.
The soup is traditionally served at weddings and festive gatherings, not necessarily as a main course but as a celebratory dish that brings people together. Over the years, it has gained widespread popularity as a go-to comfort food, often served in homes during colder months, or as part of a hearty Sunday dinner.
What Makes Italian Wedding Soup Special?
Italian Wedding Soup stands out because of the balance between its rich, savory flavors and its fresh, vibrant ingredients. The small meatballs made from a mix of beef and pork bring a juicy, flavorful bite, while the broth is light yet packed with depth. The addition of pasta adds a comforting texture, and the fresh greens like spinach or escarole brighten up the soup, giving it a refreshing, slightly bitter note that pairs perfectly with the rich broth.
One of the things that makes this soup truly special is its ability to be easily customized. You can adjust the flavors by adding your favorite herbs or even substitute the greens depending on what’s in season or what you prefer. This adaptability makes it a dish that can fit various tastes and dietary preferences.
The Nutritional Benefits of Italian Wedding Soup
Not only is Italian Wedding Soup incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. The meatballs provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair, and the addition of fresh greens such as spinach contributes vital vitamins and minerals like Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and folate. These greens also provide fiber, which is important for digestion and overall health.
The chicken broth forms the base of the soup, offering a low-calorie option while still being rich in flavor. It’s also hydrating and full of essential electrolytes, especially if you opt for homemade broth. If you’re concerned about sodium levels, you can easily make your own broth and control the amount of salt added.
The pasta in the soup provides carbohydrates, which offer energy, and the addition of Parmesan cheese gives you a touch of calcium, making this soup not only comforting but also nourishing.
Why This Recipe is the Best Italian Wedding Soup Recipe
While many versions of Italian Wedding Soup exist, this particular recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of ground beef and pork creates meatballs that are tender and juicy, while the addition of fresh breadcrumbs and Parmesan ensures they’re flavorful without being greasy. The pasta is small enough not to overpower the soup, and the spinach or escarole adds the perfect amount of freshness.
One of the keys to making this soup exceptional is ensuring the meatballs are tender but not overly dense. The breadcrumbs and egg act as binders, keeping the meatballs light while adding moisture. If you’re looking for a richer soup, you can also add a bit of cream or a dash of white wine to the broth, but this version maintains the traditional, simple flavors that make Italian Wedding Soup so comforting.
The homemade touch—using fresh, quality ingredients—makes all the difference. By using fresh garlic, onion, and herbs, you’re able to control the seasoning and bring out the natural flavors of the soup. For those looking to make the dish ahead of time, the soup also stores well in the fridge for a day or two, and the flavors continue to deepen over time.
A Versatile Dish for Every Occasion
Italian Wedding Soup is incredibly versatile and can be made for any occasion. It’s perfect for family dinners, especially on chilly evenings when you’re craving something warm and hearty. The soup can also be a great addition to holiday meals or special gatherings, where its traditional roots shine through.
If you’re serving it as a main dish, it pairs well with crusty bread or garlic bread for a more filling meal. For those who prefer a lighter option, the soup can be served as an appetizer alongside a salad or other dishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a meal at home with your loved ones, Italian Wedding Soup is a crowd-pleaser.
How to Make the Soup Your Own
While the classic Italian Wedding Soup recipe is always a winner, you can easily make it your own with a few tweaks. If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, lean ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef and pork. You can also swap out the pasta for gluten-free options if needed, or add different types of greens like kale or arugula for an extra layer of flavor.
For those who love a bit of spice, adding red pepper flakes can give the soup a subtle heat that enhances the flavors without overwhelming the dish. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top before serving adds a nice finishing touch, boosting the flavor of the soup.
Conclusion
Italian Wedding Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting tradition that brings people together. This hearty soup is not only flavorful but also filled with nutrients, making it a great option for a cozy dinner that’s both satisfying and nourishing. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet it offers a depth of flavor that will leave you coming back for more. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just craving something warm and delicious, Italian Wedding Soup is a timeless dish that will never go out of style.