Hearty Italian Wedding Soup
Ingredients
- 450g (1 lb) ground pork
- 225g (0.5 lb) ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 65g (2/3 cup) bread crumbs
- 60g (1/4 cup) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 10g (2 tsp) garlic, minced
- 5g (1 tsp) salt
- 5g (1 tsp) black pepper
- 2g (1 tsp) dried oregano
- 30ml (2 tbsp) olive oil
- 150g (1 cup) carrots, diced
- 120g (1 cup) celery, diced
- 200g (2 cups) spinach leaves, chopped
- 120g (1 cup) onions, finely chopped
- 2 liters (8 cups) chicken broth
- 120g (1 cup) small pasta (such as acini di pepe or orzo)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Form small meatballs, approximately 2.5cm (1 inch) in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, until they are fully cooked and slightly golden. Set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced carrots, celery, and onions. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
Step 4: Build the Soup
Add chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir in the small pasta and cook according to package instructions. Once the pasta is nearly done, add the cooked meatballs to the broth.
Step 5: Incorporate Spinach
Fold in the chopped spinach leaves and allow them to wilt gently in the hot soup, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Final Touches
Taste the soup and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat when the pasta is perfectly cooked and the spinach is tender.
Conclusion
Voilà, your hearty Italian Wedding Soup is ready to serve! Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. This recipe captures the essence of Italian comfort food, bringing warmth and joy to those who gather around the table. Enjoy this dish as part of a meal or as a soul-satisfying snack on a chilly day. The delightful combination of meatballs and vegetables in a savory broth is bound to make this recipe a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.
