Italian Wedding Soup

Craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for the winter season? Look no further than this delicious and nutrient-packed Italian Wedding Soup! Packed with flavorful ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup small pasta (such as orzo or acini di pepe)
• 4 cups spinach

Instructions:

• In a bowl, combine ground turkey, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
• In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
• Add chicken broth to the pot and bring to a simmer. Add meatballs and pasta, cooking until meatballs are cooked through and pasta is tender.
• Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 20g
• Carbs: 20g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g

Popular questions:

• How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground turkey with plant-based meat alternatives or tofu to make a vegetarian version of this soup.

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any small pasta shape you prefer in this recipe.

• How long does this soup keep in the fridge?

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.

• What other greens can I use besides spinach?

You can use kale, Swiss chard, or escarole as alternatives to spinach in this soup.

• Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can substitute beef broth for chicken broth in this recipe for a different flavor profile.

• How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this soup gluten-free.

• Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

You can add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans to this soup for extra vegetable goodness.

• Is it necessary to make the meatballs from scratch?

You can use pre-made meatballs if you prefer to save time in the kitchen.

• Can I add fresh herbs to enhance the flavor?

Adding fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme can elevate the flavor of this soup.

Helpful tips:

• Brown the meatballs before adding them to the soup for extra flavor.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a refreshing touch.
• Top each bowl of soup with extra Parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish.
• For a heartier soup, add cooked white beans or chickpeas.
• Season the soup with Italian seasoning or dried herbs for extra flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
• Make a double batch of meatballs and freeze them for future use.
• Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the soup just before serving.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables in this soup based on your preferences.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for a complete meal.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Use homemade chicken broth for the best flavor in this soup.
• Season the meatballs well with herbs and spices for maximum taste.
• Skim off any excess fat from the soup to reduce the calorie content.
• Let the soup sit for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• For a richer broth, add a Parmesan rind while simmering the soup.
• To make the soup extra filling, add cooked grains like quinoa or barley.
• Try using ground chicken or pork instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Garnish each bowl of soup with a dollop of pesto for a burst of flavor.
• Experiment with adding different kinds of cheese, such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano, for a twist on the classic Parmesan.