Description
This comforting Italian Wedding Soup combines flavorful homemade meatballs with tender vegetables, gluten-free pasta, and a savory chicken broth. Rich in herbs and fresh spinach, it’s a hearty yet light soup perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. The recipe uses simple ingredients and classic Italian seasoning to create an authentic and nourishing dish in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 3/4 lb organic ground beef
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1/2 cup gluten-free bread crumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 egg
Soup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 cups chicken broth (or stock)
- 3/4 cup gluten-free orzo or pasta of choice
- 3 carrots, chopped into 1/2 inch thick coins
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 1 onion, roughly chopped
- 2 tsp oregano
- 1 cup spinach
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside to place the meatballs after forming.
- Mix meatball ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, Italian seasoning, crushed garlic, gluten-free bread crumbs, salt, pepper, parsley, and egg. Use your hands to mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Form meatballs: Shape the mixture into 16 small meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator to firm up while you prepare the soup.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and chopped garlic to the pot. Cover and cook for about 8 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Add broth and seasonings: Remove the cover, pour in the chicken broth, add oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook pasta and add meatballs: Once boiling, stir in the gluten-free orzo or pasta and cook for about 7 minutes. Then gently drop the chilled meatballs into the pot.
- Finish cooking: Let meatballs cook in the simmering soup for 5 more minutes, then add the spinach and stir gently. Turn off the heat and serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta and bread crumbs to keep the recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or cook it longer uncovered.
- Adding fresh parsley at the end can enhance the flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
