Italian Wedding Soup

Introduction

Did you know that Italian Wedding Soup isn’t actually served at weddings in Italy? The name “Minestra Maritata” (meaning “married soup”) refers to the beautiful marriage between meat and greens — not a ceremony! This Soupe de Mariage Italienne is a heartwarming blend of tender meatballs, soft pasta, and fresh vegetables simmered in a savory broth. Loved for its comforting flavor and wholesome balance, this soup delivers both warmth and nutrition in a single bowl. According to culinary data, soups like this are among the top 10 most popular homemade comfort meals in North America, especially during the colder months.

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Ingredients List

🍖 For the Meatballs:

• 250 g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

🥬 For the Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup small pasta (acini di pepe, orzo, or pastina)
• 2 cups chopped spinach (or escarole or kale)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving

🍋 Optional Add-Ins:

• A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
• Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
• A dash of nutmeg for warmth

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Timing

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

This makes it about 25% faster than traditional wedding soups — without sacrificing depth of flavor.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until just combined. Roll into small bite-sized balls (about 2 cm in diameter).

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them lightly on all sides (they don’t need to cook through yet). Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the meatballs back into the pot and simmer for 10–12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Greens

Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes). In the final 3 minutes, add the chopped spinach. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

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Nutritional Information (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280 kcal
Protein	20 g
Fat	12 g
Carbohydrates	18 g
Fiber	2 g
Vitamin A	45% DV
Iron	15% DV

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Healthier Alternatives

• Lower Fat: Use lean turkey or chicken for the meatballs.
• Gluten-Free: Swap pasta and breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace meatballs with lentil or quinoa balls and use vegetable broth.
• Low-Sodium: Use homemade broth and reduce added salt.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a slice of garlic bread or toasted baguette.
• Add a side of Caesar salad for a full Italian-style meal.
• Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or fresh basil before serving.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a cozy dinner.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing meatballs: It makes them tough. Mix gently!
2. Boiling too hard: This can break apart the meatballs — simmer gently instead.
3. Adding greens too early: They’ll lose color and texture.
4. Skipping Parmesan: It’s key for umami flavor in both soup and meatballs.

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Storing Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze soup (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove to preserve texture.

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Conclusion

This Soupe de Mariage Italienne is comfort in a bowl — nourishing, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. 🥣 The “marriage” of savory meatballs, fresh greens, and pasta creates a timeless classic that delights every palate. Try it tonight and share your thoughts in the comments — or subscribe for more cozy homemade recipes!

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FAQs

1. Why is it called “wedding soup”?
The term “marriage” refers to the harmonious blend of flavors, not an actual wedding dish.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Make it 1–2 days in advance. Just add the pasta right before serving.

3. What pasta works best?
Tiny pastas like acini di pepe, orzo, or pastina work best for texture and consistency.

4. Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes — cook them directly in the broth but extend simmering time by 5 minutes.