Traditional Italian Wedding Soup: How to Make Authentic Italian Wedding Soup at Home

Experience the comforting and savory flavors of Traditional Italian Wedding Soup. This classic Italian soup combines tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth, creating a delightful and heartwarming dish. Follow this recipe to bring the authentic taste of Italy into your kitchen.

Inspiring Quote

“A bowl of soup brings warmth to the soul.” – Anonymous

Recipe Description

Italian Wedding Soup is a beloved dish in Italian cuisine known for its flavorful meatballs and rich broth. Despite its name, the soup is not traditionally served at weddings. Instead, the name refers to the “marriage” of ingredients, as the flavors blend harmoniously together. This soup typically includes mini meatballs made from a mixture of ground meats, vegetables like spinach or escarole, and small pasta shapes such as acini di pepe or orzo. The result is a hearty and satisfying soup that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe provides a detailed guide to making authentic Italian Wedding Soup at home, ensuring you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup acini di pepe or orzo pasta
• 4 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Procedure

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
   2. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
   3. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Soup:
   1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
   2. Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the acini di pepe or orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
   3. Add the browned meatballs to the pot, followed by the chopped spinach or escarole. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the greens are wilted.
   4. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve:
   1. Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
   2. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this traditional Italian dish.

Conclusion

Enjoy your homemade Traditional Italian Wedding Soup, a delicious and hearty dish that brings the warmth and flavors of Italy to your table. Perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Additional Notes

• For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs.
• This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Beverage Pairings

Italian Wedding Soup pairs well with:

• Wine: A light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a young Chianti.
• Beer: A crisp lager or a light pilsner complements the flavors of the soup.
• Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea.