Italian Wedding Soup

Warm up this winter with a delicious bowl of Italian Wedding Soup! This hearty and comforting soup is packed with flavors that will transport you straight to Italy.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 8 cups of chicken broth
• 2 cups of chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup of orzo pasta
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

• In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic until well combined. Shape into small meatballs.
• In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the meatballs and simmer for about 10 minutes.
• Add the chopped spinach and orzo pasta to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes.
• Stir in the fresh parsley and let simmer for a few more minutes before serving.

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
  Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.
• Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
  Yes, frozen spinach can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh spinach.
• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  You can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini de pepe in place of orzo.
• How long will the soup keep in the refrigerator?
  This soup will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?
  Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 2-3 months.
• Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
  Feel free to add carrots, celery, or any other vegetables you like to enhance the flavor.
• Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to use.
• Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
  Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative to chicken broth.
• Is this soup gluten-free?
  To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
• Can I add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick?
  Adding red pepper flakes is a great way to add some heat to the soup.

Helpful tips:

• For an extra depth of flavor, sauté the garlic before adding it to the meatball mixture.
• Add a splash of white wine to the pot when cooking the meatballs for a more complex flavor profile.
• Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish.
• Consider adding a can of diced tomatoes for a touch of acidity and sweetness to the soup.
• Prepare the soup ahead of time and allow it to sit for a few hours to let the flavors meld together.
• Try using a mix of ground beef and ground pork for a richer meatball flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Freeze individual portions of the soup for quick and easy lunches or dinners on busy days.
• Experiment with different greens like kale or Swiss chard for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Expert Secrets:

• Season the meatball mixture generously with salt and pepper for well-flavored meatballs.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture in the soup.
• Cook the orzo pasta separately and add it to the soup right before serving to prevent it from getting mushy.
• Simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to develop and intensify.
• Consider adding a rind of Parmesan cheese to the soup as it simmers for an extra burst of umami flavor.
• Skim any excess fat from the surface of the soup before serving for a cleaner and lighter broth.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot when cooking the meatballs to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their shape.
• Use a combination of fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to add complexity to the soup.
• Finish each bowl of soup with a drizzle of quality olive oil for a luxurious touch.
• Experiment with different broth bases like beef or vegetable for a unique flavor profile.