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Hearty Classic Italian Wedding Soup is a dish that encapsulates the essence of Italian comfort food. Despite its name, which might suggest a celebratory dish served at weddings, this soup has roots steeped in tradition and is a staple in many Italian households. Originating from Southern Italy, it is a dish that represents community, warmth, and the joyous gatherings of family and friends.

Classic Italian Wedding Soup

Discover the warmth and comfort of Hearty Classic Italian Wedding Soup, a beloved dish that brings family and friends together. This traditional Italian soup beautifully marries flavors with tender meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and rich chicken broth. Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, the recipe offers flexible ingredients to suit your tastes. Dive into the heart of Italian cuisine and enjoy a bowl of this nourishing, feel-good meal that celebrates togetherness and tradition.
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 cup ground beef

1 cup ground pork

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 large egg

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup:

8 cups chicken broth

1 cup cooked small pasta (such as acini di pepe or orzo)

2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped

1 medium onion, diced

2 carrots, diced

2 stalks celery, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions
 

Make the Meatballs:

    In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set aside.

      Prepare the Soup Base:

        In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

          Add Garlic and Seasonings:

            Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and bay leaf. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

              Simmer the Broth:

                Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, carefully drop in the meatballs, ensuring they’re evenly spaced out in the pot.

                  Cook the Meatballs:

                    Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes. The meatballs will cook through, and the flavors will meld.

                      Add Pasta and Greens:

                        Stir in the cooked pasta and chopped spinach (or kale). Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and the soup is heated through.

                          Final Seasoning:

                            Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

                              Serve and Garnish:

                                Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this hearty, comforting dish!

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 6 servings