Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to create your Italian Wedding Soup:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat. Add diced carrots, diced celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
4. Gently drop the meatballs into the simmering broth, allowing them to cook through for about 10-15 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped spinach, kale, or escarole, and acini di pepe pasta, cooking until the pasta is tender and the greens are wilted.
6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in freshly chopped parsley or basil.
7. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Storage Methods:

Extend the enjoyment of your Italian Wedding Soup with these storage methods:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations:

Embrace creativity with these tantalizing variations:

1. Vegetarian Twist: Replace the meatballs with vegetarian meatballs made from lentils, mushrooms, or chickpeas for a plant-based version of the soup.
2. Grain-Free Option: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or ground oats for a gluten-free and grain-free alternative.
3. Seafood Variation: Add cooked shrimp, scallops, or fish to the soup for a seafood twist on this classic dish.

Benefits of Ingredients:

Indulge in the nutritional bounty of the ingredients found in your Italian Wedding Soup:

• Lean Protein: Ground beef provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots, celery, onions, and leafy greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being.
• Complex Carbohydrates: Pasta adds a comforting and satisfying element to the soup, providing energy and essential nutrients.

In conclusion, Italian Wedding Soup is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of love, tradition, and the simple joys of sharing a meal with loved ones. With each spoonful, savor the warmth and comfort of a soup that nourishes both body and soul, knowing that you’re partaking in a culinary tradition that spans generations.