Italian Wedding Soup Recipe 🍲
Italian Wedding Soup is a beloved dish that brings together tender, flavorful meatballs, a rich and savory broth, fresh leafy greens, and small pasta. Despite its name, this soup is not traditionally served at weddings; rather, the name comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which means “married soup,” referring to the perfect harmony of flavors between the meat and vegetables. This hearty yet light soup is perfect for a cozy meal and is easy to prepare at home.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- ½ lb ground beef
- ½ lb ground pork (or chicken/turkey)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried parsley
For the Soup:
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small carrot (diced)
- ½ cup small pasta (like orzo or acini di pepe)
- 3 cups fresh spinach or escarole (chopped)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Grated Parmesan (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (or poultry), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about ½ inch in size. The smaller size allows them to cook quickly and ensures each spoonful of soup contains a delicious bite of meat.
Heat a pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, turning them gently. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage as they will finish cooking in the soup. Once browned, set them aside on a plate.
Step 2: Start the Soup Base
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrot. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil.
Gently add the browned meatballs into the broth. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and infuse the broth with their flavor.
Step 3: Add the Pasta and Greens
Stir in the small pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
Add the chopped spinach or escarole to the soup. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until the greens wilt.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
Sprinkle each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and flavor.
Serve warm with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Italian Wedding Soup
Balanced and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the meatballs, vitamins from the vegetables, and comforting carbs from the pasta.
Light Yet Satisfying: The broth-based soup is hearty enough for a meal but doesn’t feel too heavy.
Perfect for Any Season: Warm and comforting in the winter, yet light and fresh enough for a spring or summer meal.
Great for Meal Prep: The soup stores well and can be enjoyed for days.
Tips for the Best Italian Wedding Soup
Meatball Variations: You can use all beef, all pork, or substitute with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
Browning for Extra Flavor: While you can add raw meatballs directly to the broth, browning them first enhances their taste and texture.
Customize the Greens: Escarole is traditional, but spinach, kale, or even Swiss chard work well.
Make It Gluten-Free: Swap out the pasta for gluten-free pasta or a grain like quinoa.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them for quick meal prep.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes well! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
Italian Wedding Soup is a timeless dish that brings together rich flavors in a light yet satisfying way. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or preparing it in advance for easy meals throughout the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy this classic comfort food with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a slice of warm bread for a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious!