Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Italian wedding soup, a beloved comfort food in the United States, has gained popularity for its hearty yet light flavors. It is a perfect winter meal that can be prepared with simple ingredients and a minimal amount of time. In this article, we will walk you through the process of making this delicious soup using basic ingredients commonly found in most kitchens.

Preparation time for Italian wedding soup: approximately 20-30 minutes

Total cooking time: approximately 1 hour

Servings: 4-6 people

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 6-8 fresh spinach leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by sautéing the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot along with the olive oil. Cook until the meat is browned and the vegetables are softened, approximately 5-7 minutes.

2. Add the tomato sauce, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the flavors meld together nicely.

3. Meanwhile, prepare your orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain well when cooked al dente. Add the cooked orzo into the pot with the soup base. If you prefer a vegetarian version without meat, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit ground beef.

4. Add chopped spinach leaves towards the end of cooking if desired. This adds an extra layer of flavor and color to your Italian wedding soup. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the orzo is fully incorporated into the soup.

5. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.

Enjoy Your Meal:

This Italian wedding soup recipe yields a richly flavored, comforting bowl of goodness that can be enjoyed with crusty bread or garlic naan. It’s also an excellent choice for those looking to diversify their diet by incorporating more vegetables and grains into their meals. The simplicity of this dish allows you to focus on the fresh flavors while enjoying a satisfying meal.

For added variety, feel free to experiment by substituting other pasta types like farfalle or bow ties if desired. You could also add more protein sources such as diced ham or sliced chicken for extra richness. Additionally, incorporating seasonal vegetables like carrots or bell peppers can enhance the nutritional profile and taste further.

Italian wedding soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit different dietary needs. Whether you're hosting guests or simply looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening, this recipe offers an easy yet impressive option that is sure to please everyone at the table.

To maximize flavor and texture, consider garnishing your bowls with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or even a slice of lemon. These simple additions can elevate each bite, making every spoonful more enjoyable.

Italian wedding soup remains a beloved classic due to its ability to provide warmth during colder months while offering nutritional value through its combination of protein, vegetables, and whole grains. Its simplicity makes it accessible for both experienced cooks and beginners alike. With this simple recipe in hand, you can now recreate this comforting dish anytime you desire.

Whether served as a hearty main course or paired with side salads, Italian wedding soup stands out as a perfect example of how delicious meals don't always require complex ingredients or extensive preparation time. So why wait? Try making your own batch today and enjoy the delightful taste and satisfaction that comes from creating such an authentic culinary experience.