Italian Wedding Soup

Looking for a warm and comforting meal to cozy up to during the colder months? This traditional Italian Wedding Soup is the perfect choice, filled with flavorful meatballs, tender vegetables, and delicious broth.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups diced carrots
• 2 cups chopped spinach
• 1 cup orzo pasta

Instructions:

• In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Form small meatballs and set aside.
• In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer. Add in the carrots and meatballs, cooking until the meatballs are cooked through.
• Stir in the spinach and orzo pasta, simmering until the pasta is tender.
• Serve hot and enjoy a bowl of this comforting Italian Wedding Soup.

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.

• Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used, just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the soup.

• Can I substitute orzo with another pasta?

You can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe as a substitute for orzo.

• How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet.

• Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to use.

Helpful tips:

• Add a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan on top before serving for extra flavor.
• You can add a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of brightness to the soup.
• Top with a dollop of pesto for an added burst of flavor.
• You can make a double batch and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals later on.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the meatballs in the broth for added flavor instead of baking them separately.
• Season the broth with additional herbs like oregano or thyme for extra depth of flavor.
• Add a splash of white wine to the broth while simmering for a more complex flavor profile.
• Use homemade chicken broth for the best taste, but store-bought works well too.