Italian Wedding Soup with White Beans Recipe

 

Italian Wedding Soup with White Beans Recipe

 

Italian Wedding Soup is a classic Italian American dish. It combines tender meatballs, vegetables, and white beans in a rich broth. This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day or a special occasion. The white beans add protein, fiber, and creaminess, making it a nutritious meal. With its great flavors and comforting texture, this soup is sure to become a favorite for the family.

Why You'll Love This

You'll love this Italian Wedding Soup recipe because it's a tasty and comforting way to warm up on a cold day. The combination of tender meatballs, vegetables, and white beans creates a rich broth that is both nourishing and flavorful. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe, so feel free to adjust the ingredients to fit your taste.

 

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings: 6 people

Difficulty Level: Medium

Ingredients

·       1 pound ground beef 

·       1/2 cup breadcrumbs 

·       1 egg 

·       1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. 

·       1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. 

·       2 cloves garlic, minced. 

·       1 medium onion, chopped. 

·       2 medium carrots, chopped. 

·       2 stalks of celery, chopped. 

·       1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes. 

·       4 cups of chicken broth 

·       1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed. 

·       Salt and pepper, to taste 

·       Fresh basil, chopped (optional) 

Tools

·       Large pot 

·       Meatball maker or spoon 

·       Cutting board 

·       Knife 

·       Measuring cups and spoons 

Directions

Step 1 

Making Meatballs 

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic. 

2. Mix well by hand or with a wooden spoon until just combined. 

3. Use a meatball maker or spoon to shape the mixture into small meatballs.  

Step 2 

Cook the Meatballs 

1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. 

2. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. 

3. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside. 

Step 3 

Sauté the Vegetables 

1. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. 

2. Cook until the vegetables are tender, for about 5-7 minutes. 

Step 4

Add Broth and Tomatoes 

1. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and browned meatballs to the pot. 

2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes. 

Step 5 

Add the White Beans 

1. Stir in the cannellini beans and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. 

2. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.  

Step 6 

Serve the Soup 

1. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil if desired. 

 

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown (per serving) 

·       Calories: 350-400 

·       Protein: 25-30g 

·       Fat: 15-20g 

·       Carbohydrates: 25-30g 

 

Serve the soup with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal. You can also enjoy it as a starter or main course. 

Tips and Variations 

·       Use lean ground meat or turkey for a healthier option. 

·       Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. 

·       Serve the soup with a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added taste. 

·       Try different types of beans or vegetables for a unique twist. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time? 

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. 

2. What type of beans is best for this recipe? 

Cannellini beans work well, but other types of white beans are also suitable. 

3. Can I customize the recipe with other ingredients? 

Yes, feel free to adjust the ingredients to match your taste and dietary preferences. 

4. Can I serve this soup as a main course? 

Yes, this soup works well as a main dish, especially when served with bread or rice. 

5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? 

Yes, you can. First, brown the meatballs and cook the vegetables in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. 

6. Can I freeze this soup? 

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to serve.