20 Italian Wedding Soup Recipe From Italy You Must Try Them!

Published on: Mar 17, 2024

Looking for an authentic taste of Italy for your special day? Look no further than this traditional Italian Wedding Soup recipe direct from the heart of Italy itself. Known as "minestra maritata" or "married soup", this hearty and flavorful dish has been a staple at Italian weddings for generations. Serve it at your own wedding or any special occasion, and your guests will surely be impressed by the delicious and authentic taste of Italy.

Jump to Recipe

The Origins of Italian Wedding Soup

A Combination of Cultures

Contrary to popular belief, Italian Wedding Soup does not actually originate from Italy. It is believed to have originated in Naples, Italy, where it was served at weddings and other special occasions. However, the soup's name is not derived from its association with weddings, but rather from the combination of flavors from two different cultures. The soup is a fusion of Italian and Greek cuisine, with the use of Italian meatballs and Greek greens. This unique blend of flavors is what makes this soup truly special and a must-try for any food lover.

Symbolism in Every Bite

The ingredients used in Italian Wedding Soup also hold special meanings. The meatballs symbolize the union of marriage, as they are made by combining different meats and spices. The greens, typically escarole or kale, represent the bitter and sweet moments that come with marriage. And the pasta, usually acini di pepe or orzo, signifies the abundance and prosperity that a marriage brings. Every bite of this soup not only tantalizes the taste buds but also tells a story of love and commitment.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

Meatballs: 1 pound ground beef, 1/2 pound ground pork, 1/4 cup bread crumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 1 garlic clove, minced, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Soup: 8 cups chicken broth, 1 cup acini di pepe pasta, 1 cup chopped escarole or kale, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 eggs, beaten

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients and mix well. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the meatballs and let them cook for 5 minutes.
Add the pasta and escarole or kale to the pot. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the pasta is tender and the greens are wilted.
In a small bowl, beat the eggs and slowly pour them into the soup while stirring constantly. This will create thin ribbons of egg in the soup.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Bringing Italy to Your Table

With this Italian Wedding Soup recipe, you can bring a taste of Italy to your table and impress your guests with a dish that is not only delicious but also steeped in tradition and symbolism. Serve it at your wedding or any other special occasion, and your guests will surely feel like they have been transported to the charming streets of Italy. Buon appetito!