18 Simple Italian Wedding Soup Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
Wedding soup, or "minestra maritata" in Italian, is a classic dish that combines the warmth and comfort of a homemade soup with the elegance and sophistication of a wedding feast. With its rich broth, tender meatballs, and hearty greens, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. But don't let the name fool you, this simple Italian wedding soup recipe is easy enough to make at home and perfect for any occasion. Let's dive into the delicious details and learn how to make this traditional dish.
Italian wedding soup is a classic dish that brings together the flavors of Italy in a warm and comforting bowl. With its origins in Italian-American cuisine, this soup is a staple in many households and a favorite among dinner guests. Made with a delicious broth, vegetables, meatballs, and pasta, Italian wedding soup is a hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion.
The classic version of Italian wedding soup is a simple yet flavorful combination of chicken broth, meatballs, and greens. The meatballs can be made with a blend of ground beef and pork, or just ground beef, and are seasoned with herbs and Parmesan cheese. The greens usually used are escarole, kale, or spinach, adding a healthy dose of vitamins to the soup.
If you ask any Italian family for their favorite recipe for Italian wedding soup, you're bound to get a different answer every time. That's because everyone has their own twist on this beloved dish. Some may add carrots or celery to the broth, while others may use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought. No matter how you make it, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious bowl of Italian wedding soup, fear not. There are many easy versions of this recipe that require minimal preparation and cooking time. One option is to use frozen meatballs and pre-cut greens to save time. You can also use a slow cooker to let the flavors develop while you go about your day.
5of 11
Italian Wedding Soup With Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Onions, Egg, Parmesan
The meatballs are the star of the show in Italian wedding soup, and for good reason. They are packed with flavor and add a hearty texture to the soup. While traditional meatballs are made with ground beef and pork, you can also use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. Just make sure to season them well with Italian herbs and spices.
6of 11
Skinny Italian Wedding Soup
Main Ingredients: Extra Lean Ground Beef, Bread Crumbs, Onion, Egg
If you're looking for a healthier version of Italian wedding soup, try making a "skinny" version. This usually involves using leaner meats, such as ground turkey for the meatballs, and substituting traditional pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options. You can also add more vegetables, like carrots and zucchini, to bulk up the soup without adding extra calories.
7of 11
Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Ground Chicken, Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs
Using a slow cooker to make Italian wedding soup is a great way to let the flavors develop and have a warm meal waiting for you at the end of a busy day. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful the soup will be.
8of 11
Italian Wedding Soup with Tortellini
Main Ingredients: Ground Turkey, Large Egg, Breadcrumbs, Grated Parmesan
If you want to add a twist to the classic version of Italian wedding soup, try using tortellini instead of pasta. The small stuffed pasta adds a burst of flavor and turns the soup into a more filling meal. You can use cheese or meat tortellini, depending on your preferences. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
No matter how many variations of Italian wedding soup there are, the key ingredients remain the same: meatballs, greens, and broth. This simple yet delicious combination is what makes this soup so comforting and satisfying. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, Italian wedding soup is always a good idea.
10of 11
Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Ground Chicken, Breadcrumbs, Medium Eggs, Grated
If you want to switch up the meat in your Italian wedding soup, try using chicken meatballs instead of beef. They are lighter and still packed with flavor, making for a healthier option. You can also use ground chicken to make the soup brothier. Just remember to season them well with Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese.
For an even easier version of Italian wedding soup, try making it in a crock-pot. This slow-cooker method requires minimal prep and cooking time, and the end result is a delicious and comforting soup. Just add all the ingredients to the crock-pot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. It's a perfect meal for a busy day or when you don't feel like spending hours in the kitchen.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
The Broth
The key to a delicious Italian wedding soup lies in the broth. It serves as the base for all the flavors to come together. This recipe uses a combination of chicken broth and beef broth to add depth and richness to the soup. For a more flavorful broth, try making your own by simmering chicken and beef bones with herbs and vegetables for a few hours. Trust us, it's worth the extra effort.
The Meatballs
The meatballs are the star of the show in this soup. They are made from a mixture of ground beef, ground pork, and breadcrumbs to create a tender and flavorful bite. A generous amount of garlic, onion, and parmesan cheese add a savory punch to the meatballs. To save time, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them until ready to use.
The Greens
While the traditional recipe calls for escarole, you can use any leafy green of your choice such as spinach, kale, or even cabbage. The greens add a refreshing crunch and balance out the richness of the broth and meatballs.
Simple and Easy to Make
Cooking the Soup
Once you have all the ingredients prepped, making the soup is a breeze. Start by heating up the broth in a large pot, then add in the meatballs. Let them cook for a few minutes before adding in the greens. Once the greens are wilted, the soup is ready to be served.
Make it Your Own
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Add in some carrots and celery for extra crunch or toss in some cooked pasta to make it heartier. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique version of this classic soup.
The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
Whether it's for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal, this simple Italian wedding soup recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it as a starter or as a main course, either way, it will surely impress your guests. So next time you're in the mood for a warm and comforting bowl of soup, give this recipe a try and savor the delicious flavors of Italy.
