Italian Wedding Soup
Try this Italian Wedding Soup recipe.
Try this Italian Wedding Soup recipe.
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tablespoon skim milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil divided
- 5 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese divided
- 6 oz 99% fat free ground turkey breast
- 2 tablespoons plain bread crumbs
- 2 medium carrots grated or diced (i use my pampered chef fo
- 64 oz 99% fat free reduced sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup uncooked whole wheat orzo
- 2 cups thinly sliced raw kale
- Carbohydrate 2.51599665070493 g
- Cholesterol 2.34270833427295 mg
- Fat 1.4126404941856 g
- Fiber 0.266199646363224 g
- Protein 2.04246147238219 g
- Saturated Fat 0.556469995058162 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (1-1/2 cup) serving (356g)
- Sodium 834.611803089313 mg
- Sugar 2.24979700434171 g
- Trans Fat 0.0889342674133571 g
- Calories 30 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, garlic powder, one tablespoon of the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, egg white and milk.
- Using your hands (or a spoon), mush all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Roll meat mixture into 30 separate (3/4" - 1") mini meatballs.
- In a large stock pot (or a large skillet, but if you cook these in the pot you can totally use one pot for the entire meal and have one less to wash!), bring 2 teaspoons of the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs to the oil and cook them, stirring occasionally until all sides are browned.
- Remove meatballs to a dish and set aside.
- Add the remaining teaspoon of olive oil to the pot and continue to heat to medium.
- Add the carrots, onion and garlic and sprinkle with salt & pepper.
- Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until vegetables are softened.
- Add the chicken broth to the vegetables in the stock pot and cover.
- Bring to a boil and then uncover to add the meatballs, remaining 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) of Parmesan, orzo and kale.
- Stir to combine and make sure the soup is at a boil.
- Re-cover the pot and return heat to medium to simmer.
- Cook for about 15 minutes until the orzo and meatballs are cooked through.
A Busy Mom's Go-To: Italian Wedding Soup
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present need to get a healthy and satisfying meal on the table. That's why I rely heavily on recipes that are both quick and delicious. This Italian Wedding Soup fits the bill perfectly. It's a comforting classic, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly easy to make, even on my busiest days. The recipe I use is a slightly modified version passed down from my Nonna – a woman who understood the art of making something extraordinary from simple ingredients. This soup is a testament to that legacy. It’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary preferences and what you have on hand. Need to add some extra vegetables? Go for it! Want to swap the ground turkey for chicken? Absolutely! This recipe is your blank canvas for a delicious and healthy meal.
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. The rich chicken broth forms the base, providing a comforting warmth that's perfect for chilly evenings. The tiny meatballs, seasoned perfectly, add a delightful heartiness to each spoonful. Tender carrots and onions contribute subtle sweetness, while the kale adds a boost of nutrients and a vibrant green color. The orzo pasta, small and perfectly tender, adds a lovely textural contrast to the broth and meatballs. The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes – a feat I celebrate every time I make it. It's a meal that nourishes not only my family but also my soul. It’s a reminder of simpler times, of family dinners around a warm table, and of the comfort food that sustains us through the busy weeks. Making this soup is almost meditative; the rhythmic chopping and stirring soothes my soul while the aroma fills my kitchen with warmth. The finished soup, served steaming hot in bowls, is a beacon of comfort and nourishment. It's the perfect reminder that even amidst the chaos of a busy life, there's always time for a wholesome and delicious meal.
Ingredient Variations and Tips:
Meatballs: Don't be afraid to experiment with the meatballs! You can use ground chicken, beef, or even a combination of meats. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture adds a subtle kick. For a leaner version, increase the proportion of breadcrumbs slightly.
Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your liking. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms would be delicious additions. I sometimes use leftover roasted vegetables to make this even quicker.
Broth: Use a high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought low-sodium options work just as well.
Pasta: While orzo is traditional, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or tiny shells.
Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a lovely salty finish. Pecorino Romano is another delicious option.
Herbs: Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, are an excellent addition. Add them at the end for a burst of freshness. A small sprig of fresh rosemary during the simmer adds a lovely aroma.
Serving Suggestions:
This soup is perfect as a light lunch or a hearty dinner. It’s great on its own, but you can also pair it with a crusty bread for dipping or a side salad for a complete meal. Leftovers are even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld. I often make a double batch to have leftovers for lunches during the week - a smart strategy for busy days ahead.
Beyond the Recipe: The Comfort of Tradition
This Italian Wedding Soup recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it's a connection to my family history. It evokes memories of cozy Sunday dinners, the aroma of simmering broth filling the house, and the warmth of family gathered around the table. This soup isn't just a meal; it's a tradition, a taste of home, a comforting reminder that even amidst the demands of modern life, there's always time for simple pleasures. And that's the true magic of this recipe – it transcends simple sustenance and becomes a powerful symbol of family and comfort.
