Italian Wedding Soup

Italian Wedding Soup is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This comforting soup features homemade Italian meatballs, savory vegetables, and delicious Parmesan cheese. Whether it’s a cozy winter night or a family gathering, this Italian Wedding Soup will surely impress your guests with its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this delicious soup in just under an hour.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The combination of meatballs, fresh veggies, and Parmesan brings depth and richness to every bowl.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a starter at gatherings; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from vegetables and lean protein, this soup is a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time; it freezes wonderfully for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Italian Wedding Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly while providing enough space to cook all ingredients together.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining meatball ingredients efficiently before shaping them into balls.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 slice soft bread (about ¾ cup fluffed bread crumbs)
• 2 tablespoons water
• ½ lb ground beef
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (fresh if possible)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

For the Soup Base

• 2 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 2 ribs celery (sliced)
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 bay leaf
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, but adds nice flavor)
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 Parmesan rind (optional but delicious!)

For the Finish

• 1 cup small pasta (I used ditalini, but orzo or anything very small will work about 90 grams)
• 2 cups fresh chopped spinach

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a mixing bowl, combine fluffed bread crumbs and water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until absorbed.
2. Add ground beef, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Shape the mixture into small meatballs.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil.
2. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for about 5–7 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Add the chicken broth to the pot along with the bay leaf and red pepper flakes.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Add Meatballs and Pasta

1. Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering broth.
2. Stir in your small pasta of choice.
3. Cook according to pasta package instructions until both meatballs are cooked through and pasta is tender.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach

1. Remove bay leaf from the soup.
2. Stir in fresh chopped spinach just before serving until wilted.

Enjoy your delicious Italian Wedding Soup!

How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup

Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or the main course, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Create a Salad Side

• A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the savory flavors of the soup beautifully.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or basil for an aromatic finish that brightens the soup.

Offer Grated Parmesan

• Provide extra shredded Parmesan cheese on the side, allowing guests to add their preferred amount for added creaminess.

Include Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty brightness that balances the rich flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Italian Wedding Soup

To make your Italian Wedding Soup truly shine, consider these essential tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs provide vibrant flavors that dried ingredients can’t match.

• Make meatballs ahead: Prepping meatballs in advance allows flavors to meld and makes mealtime easier.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the broth before serving. Adjusting salt or adding more Italian seasoning can elevate your dish.

• Don’t overcook pasta: Cook pasta separately until al dente and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

• Stir in spinach last: Adding chopped spinach at the end preserves its bright color and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Wedding Soup

Pairing sides with your Italian Wedding Soup can enhance the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for savoring every drop of the soup.

2. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, this appetizer adds a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies offer a flavorful complement while adding nutritious elements to your meal.

4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soup’s softness.

5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be made ahead and filled with rice, herbs, and cheese, making them an inviting side dish.

6. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad with olives, bell peppers, and Italian dressing offers a satisfying contrast to hot soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Wedding Soup can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Using stale bread: Fresh bread helps create tender meatballs. Use soft bread rather than hardened pieces for better texture.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Aim to sauté vegetables just until they soften. Overcooking can lead to mushy textures that detract from the soup’s appeal.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors throughout the dish.
• Not browning the meatballs: Browning meatballs adds depth of flavor. Take the time to cook them in batches until nicely browned before adding to the soup.
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach, herbs, and garlic make a big difference. Always choose fresh produce for vibrant taste and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Italian Wedding Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Wedding Soup

• Freeze soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Wedding Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until hot, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Wedding Soup.

What is Italian Wedding Soup?

Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty soup featuring meatballs, vegetables, and pasta simmered in chicken broth, making it a comforting meal.

Can I use other meats in Italian Wedding Soup?

Yes! While traditional recipes often use beef or pork, you can substitute turkey or lamb for a unique twist on this classic dish.

How do I make Italian Wedding Soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.

How long does it take to make Italian Wedding Soup?

This recipe takes about 50 minutes from prep to finish, making it perfect for both weekday dinners and weekend gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Italian Wedding Soup is a versatile dish that offers warmth and comfort any time of year. With its rich flavors and customizable options, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try; you’ll love how delicious homemade soup can be!