Name: Italian Wedding Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 egg, lightly beaten; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup breadcrumbs; 3/4 lb ground beef (85/10); 3/4 lb ground sweet italian sausage; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tablespoons minced Italian parsley leaves; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 oz diced pancetta; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 large carrots, diced; 3 ribs celery, diced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 8 cups chicken stock; 1 cup acini de pepe pasta; 5 oz baby kale; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; finely grated parmesan, for serving; kosher salt and pepper, to taste

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Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. This hearty soup is filled with savory meatballs, tender pasta, and nutritious greens, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of homemade meatballs, aromatic herbs, and fresh vegetables creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
This recipe can be easily prepared in advance and reheated for a quick and delicious meal during busy weekdays.

Italian Wedding Soup is a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it a go-to option for meal prep.

Ingredient Notes:

Meatballs

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the meatballs.

Grated Parmesan Cheese: Provides a rich and savory flavor to the meatballs.

Breadcrumbs: Helps to bind the meatball mixture and adds texture.
Ground Beef and Sweet Italian Sausage: Combine for a flavorful and tender meatball.

Tomato Paste: Adds depth and richness to the meatball mixture.

Garlic, Italian Parsley, Salt, and Pepper: Enhance the overall flavor of the meatballs.

Soup

Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the pancetta and vegetables.

Pancetta: Adds a salty and savory flavor to the soup.
Yellow Onion, Carrots, Celery: Create a flavorful base for the soup.

Dried Oregano and Basil: Infuse the soup with aromatic herbs.

Chicken Stock: Provides a rich and savory broth for the soup.
Acini de Pepe Pasta: A small pasta shape that cooks quickly and adds texture.

Baby Kale: Adds a nutritious and vibrant green element to the soup.

Lemon Zest and Juice: Brightens the flavors of the soup.
Finely Grated Parmesan: Garnish the soup with a cheesy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the meatball ingredients and shape into small balls.

In a soup pot, heat olive oil and cook pancetta until crispy. Add onions, carrots, and celery, then stir in herbs.
Pour in chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Add meatballs and pasta, cooking until meatballs are cooked through.

Stir in kale, lemon zest, and juice. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve hot with grated Parmesan on top.

Helpful Tips:

For a healthier option, use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef.

To save time, make the meatballs in advance and freeze for later use.

Substitute spinach or Swiss chard for kale if desired.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use a combination of beef and sausage for the most flavorful meatballs.

Let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

Italian Wedding Soup pairs well with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or a glass of Chianti wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding more broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use store-bought meatballs instead of making them from scratch?

While you can use pre-made meatballs, homemade meatballs will provide better flavor and texture to the soup.

Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup without the pasta for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

What other greens can I use in this soup?

Feel free to use spinach, Swiss chard, or escarole instead of kale in the soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can omit the meatballs and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of Italian Wedding Soup.

Conclusion:

Italian Wedding Soup is a classic dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its delicious flavors and simple preparation, this recipe is a must-try for any home cook. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup and savor the warmth and love in every spoonful. Buon appetito!