Let’s explore a comforting and hearty dish: Italian Wedding Soup! This soup is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion.
History
Italian Wedding Soup, or “Minestra Maritata,” translates to “married soup,” signifying the harmony of flavors from the meat and greens. Despite its name, it’s not typically served at weddings but has roots in Southern Italian cuisine. It’s a dish that showcases the use of fresh ingredients, often featuring seasonal greens and homemade meatballs.
Benefits
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins from the vegetables and greens, alongside protein from the meatballs.
- Hydrating: The broth contributes to hydration, making it a great comfort food.
- Versatile: You can modify the recipe with different greens or grains based on your preferences.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup acini di pepe or orzo pasta
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
2. Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
- Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the acini di pepe or orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions.
5. Combine:
- Once the pasta is cooked, add the meatballs back into the pot.
- Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.
6. Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Cooking Methods
- Sautéing: Enhances the flavor of the vegetables and meatballs.
- Simmering: Allows flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
Tips
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- You can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for quicker cooking later!
Enjoy this delightful soup that warms both the body and soul! If you have any questions or need further tips, just let me know. 🍲✨