Rustic Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Rustic Italian Wedding Soup is one of those heart-warming, classic, comfort foods that turns any day into a special one. A hearty mix of meatballs, wholesome vegetables and tiny pasta, all swirled together in a savory broth makes it something to be loved by all. A perfect meal for chilly winter dinners, romantic suppers, or celebratory occasions, this soup is a versatile star stealing the show.

You might wonder why it’s called a ‘wedding’ soup? No, it’s not typically served at Italian weddings. The marriage we’re talking about here is a perfect union of meat and greens, coming together to create a flavorful symphony in a bowl. Once you taste this cozy concoction, you’ll understand why it’s a match made in food heaven.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 Hour 5 Minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Yield: 8 cups

So, let���s gear up, gather our ingredients and get ready to explore the simple, yet delicious world of Rustic Italian Wedding Soup. Shall we?

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

• �� pound lean ground beef
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons bread crumbs
• 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• �� teaspoon dried basil
• 3 tablespoons minced onion
• 5 �� cups chicken broth
• 2 cups spinach, chopped
• �� cup uncooked orzo pasta

As for equipment, a large pot or Dutch oven and a baking tray for broiling the meatballs will suffice.

The ground beef is the star of this recipe, ensuring each spoonful is packed with protein. The chicken broth forms the base of the soup, giving it a rich, flavorful foundation. Parmesan adds a sharp, salty spark, while the orzo pasta ensures you���ve got something hearty to bite into. Lastly, the spinach isn���t just for show – it boosts the nutrient value of the soup.

How To Make Rustic Italian Wedding Soup

1. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix together ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, grated cheese, basil and onion in a bowl. Once mixed thoroughly, shape the mixture into meatballs, about �� inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes until they are browned.
2. While your meatballs are in the oven, in your pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the spinach, orzo pasta, and meatballs. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 10 minutes, skimming off any foam that surfaces.
3. After 10 minutes, reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for another 10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
   Serve it hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips For The Best Results

• Stay patient: Don’t rush the cooking process. The flavors need time to meld together.
• Go homemade: Using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought will significantly enhance its flavor.
• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and a fresh Parmesan rind can be added into the soup to pump up the flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerators are friends: You can refrigerate the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Use the freezer wisely: If freezing, do not add the pasta. Cook and add it when you���re ready to serve the soup. This way the pasta won���t get mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute the meatballs with chicken?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for the meatballs.

Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes, an alternative pasta such as acini de pepe or ditalini can be used.

Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: No, but it can be made gluten free by using gluten-free pasta and bread crumbs.

Q: What type of spinach can I use?
A: Any type of spinach (baby, mature, or frozen and thawed) can be used as per your preference.

Q: Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make and bake the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the fridge.

Nutritional Facts of Rustic Italian Wedding Soup

Each serving of this delicious soup provides around 163 calories, 3g of fat, 20g of protein, 14g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 4g of sugar.

I truly believe this classic Rustic Italian Wedding Soup can make any meal feel like a feast. It���s light yet hearty, nutritious yet comforting, and incredibly delicious. Serve with warm crusty bread and a side salad for a delightfully balanced meal. So, what are you waiting for? Time to soup up your menu!