Name: Italian Wedding Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach or kale; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

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The aroma of savory broth wafts through the air, mingling with tender meatballs and vibrant greens, promising a bowl of comfort that warms the soul. Italian Wedding Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary embrace that whispers sweet nothings while your taste buds dance in delight.

Picture this: a cozy Sunday afternoon, family gathered around the table, laughter echoing as bowls are filled with this delightful soup. Each spoonful offers rich flavors and textures, creating memories that linger long after the last drop is savored. You can enjoy this heartwarming recipe for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly night or a festive gathering that calls for something extraordinary.

Why You'll Love This Italian Wedding Soup

This incredible Italian Wedding Soup transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Italian Wedding Soup:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they pack a punch in this dish.
Spinach or Kale: Fresh greens add color and nutrients; opt for organic when possible for extra flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese enhances the soup’s richness; fresh is best to elevate your culinary game.
Chicken Broth: A good quality broth serves as the base; homemade is ideal but store-bought works too if you’re short on time.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Italian Wedding Soup:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken (or beef), breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Form small meatballs about one inch in diameter; set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant—approximately one minute—before adding your chicken broth.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Carefully drop your prepared meatballs into the simmering broth. Allow them to cook gently for about 10 minutes until they are cooked through and float to the top.

Step 4: Add Greens and Seasoning

Stir in your choice of spinach or kale along with dried oregano and thyme. Let everything simmer together for another five minutes until greens are wilted but still vibrant.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Once everything is well-combined and heated through, remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your Italian Wedding Soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan if desired. Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping!

And there you have it! A soul-soothing bowl of Italian Wedding Soup that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy each comforting spoonful like you’re at an Italian wedding feast—confetti optional!

You Must Know About Italian Wedding Soup

This showstopping Italian Wedding Soup delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Italian Wedding Soup, start by browning the meatballs first. While they sizzle away, sauté onions and garlic in a separate pot. Once fragrant, add broth and veggies before tossing in the pasta for a harmonious blend of flavors.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to get creative with Italian Wedding Soup! Swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Toss in some spinach instead of kale for a different texture, or spice things up with red pepper flakes if you love heat.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Italian Wedding Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Italian Wedding Soup

This professional-quality Italian Wedding Soup relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I remember the first time I made Italian Wedding Soup; my friends devoured it like it was their last meal! Their compliments felt like a warm hug, making me realize I was onto something deliciously special.

FAQs

What is Italian Wedding Soup?

Italian Wedding Soup is a traditional dish that blends flavorful meatballs, leafy greens, and tiny pasta in a savory broth. Despite its name, it does not originate from weddings; instead, it symbolizes the marriage of flavors in the bowl. This hearty soup typically features ingredients such as spinach or escarole and can include a variety of meats, often combining beef and pork. It is beloved for its comforting qualities and nutritional value, making it an ideal choice for family meals or gatherings.

How do you make Italian Wedding Soup?

To make Italian Wedding Soup, start by preparing small meatballs using ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Brown them in a pot to enhance their flavor. Next, add onions, garlic, and your choice of broth. Incorporate leafy greens like spinach or kale and add small pasta like acini di pepe. Allow everything to simmer until the greens wilt and the pasta cooks through. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste for a perfect finish.

Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time. In fact, making it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to freeze it, consider adding the pasta just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy upon reheating. When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove until warmed through.

What are some variations of Italian Wedding Soup?

There are many delicious variations of Italian Wedding Soup that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. You can use different types of greens like kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach. For a vegetarian option, consider using meat substitutes or omitting meat altogether while keeping the broth rich with herbs and spices. Additionally, experimenting with spices or adding beans can create unique twists on this beloved recipe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and nutritious ingredients into one comforting bowl. With its tender meatballs, vibrant greens, and hearty broth, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, you’ll appreciate its warmth and taste. Don’t hesitate to try out different variations to make this classic recipe your own!