Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

This cozy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is a delightful blend of homemade mini meatballs, crisp vegetables, and tender pasta simmered in a nourishing chicken broth. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this soup is not only comforting but also full of flavor. Its standout qualities include the ease of preparation and the warm embrace it provides on chilly days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Nourishing: The combination of meatballs, veggies, and broth makes for a hearty meal that is perfect for any time of year.
• Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up when you need a quick meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: This recipe comes together in one pot, minimizing cleanup time while maximizing flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out vegetables or pasta shapes based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for batch cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a seamless cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Dutch oven or large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for making soups as it retains heat well and allows even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without mess, especially when making meatballs.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 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

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 oz diced turkey strips
• 1 yellow onion, (diced)
• 2 large carrots, (diced)
• 3 ribs celery, (diced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 8 cups chicken stock, ((homemade is best))

For Finishing Touches

• 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)

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the beaten egg and parmesan. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. Then, add the sausage, beef, tomato paste, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything by hand until well combined. Use a tablespoon to make small meatballs and lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 2: Broil the Meatballs

Set an oven rack in the top third of the oven and turn the broiler on high. Broil the meatballs for 6-8 minutes until browned. Remove them from the oven and set aside.

Step 3: Render the Turkey Strips

Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add turkey strips and cook for 6-7 minutes while stirring often until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer turkey strips to a small bowl.

Step 4: Build the Soup

Add onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are soft. Stir in dried oregano and basil; cook for another minute. Pour in chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Add meatballs and crispy turkey strips; cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in pasta; simmer until tender (about 8 minutes).

Step 5: Finish the Soup

Stir in baby kale, lemon zest, and lemon juice; simmer just until greens are wilted. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated parmesan before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Italian Wedding Soup!

How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Italian wedding soup is a warm and inviting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This comforting bowl of goodness can be enjoyed in several delightful ways to enhance your dining experience.

Bread for Dipping

• Crusty Baguette: Slice a fresh baguette to dip into the broth, soaking up all the flavors.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a classic pairing that adds a savory touch.

Salad Pairings

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the soup’s richness and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the hearty soup.

Garnishes

• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Offer finely grated parmesan for guests to sprinkle on top, adding extra flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil can be added just before serving for a burst of freshness.

How to Perfect Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

To achieve the best version of your Italian wedding soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup.
• Homemade Broth: Opt for homemade chicken stock if possible; it brings a deeper flavor compared to store-bought.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup as it simmers and adjust salt and pepper levels for optimal seasoning.
• Simmer Gently: Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps meld the flavors without overcooking the ingredients.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Italian wedding soup can elevate the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make an irresistible companion.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers create a light and flavorful starter.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheese provides variety and excitement.
5. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes can be served alongside for a hearty addition that pairs beautifully.
6. Focaccia Bread: Fluffy focaccia topped with herbs enhances the overall Italian theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian wedding soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here are some to avoid:

• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Opting for stale or old vegetables can affect the flavor and texture of your soup. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best taste.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long will make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking to ensure it remains al dente.

• Skipping the Broil Step: Failing to broil the meatballs may lead to a lack of flavor and texture. Broiling them adds a delicious browned crust.

• Ignoring Seasoning Balance: Under-seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.

• Using Low-Quality Broth: A low-quality broth can compromise the overall flavor. Homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken stock is recommended for richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Italian wedding soup recipe that might help you out!

Can I customize my Italian Wedding Soup Recipe?

Yes! You can swap out vegetables or use different types of meat such as chicken or turkey for variety.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta instead of traditional options to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

What other greens can I add to my soup?

Besides baby kale, you can experiment with spinach or Swiss chard for different flavors and nutrition.

How do I ensure my meatballs stay tender?

Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture and cook them just until browned; they will continue cooking in the soup.

Final Thoughts

This Italian wedding soup recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness perfect for any occasion!