California Italian Wedding Soup
INTRODUCTION
Let one bowlful of the California Italian Wedding Soup warm your heart and soul. It is an irresistible fusion of California freshness and a classic Italian favourite. Ground-turkey meatballs, fresh spinach, and pasta come together in a lightly flavoured chicken broth creating a delectable harmony of flavours. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE?
Experience an authentic Italian flavour right in your kitchen with this easy and quick recipe. It’s a wholesome one-pot meal, with nutrient-dense ingredients and savoury flavours. The comforting taste will make you look forward to dinner time every day!
HOW TO MAKE CALIFORNIA ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP
INGREDIENTS:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup bread crumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
FOR THE SOUP:
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup small pasta (For instance, acini di pepe or orzo)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Extra grated Parmesan cheese for serving
DIRECTIONS:
1. Mix ground turkey, bread crumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Shape the mix into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. Set aside.
2. Over medium heat, heat olive oil in a pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Stir until the vegetables are tender, for about 5 minutes.
3. Pour the chicken broth and water. Stir and bring it to a boil. Gently add the meatballs one by one to the soup. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente.
5. Stir in the spinach and let it wilt for a few minutes. Add salt and pepper according to your preference.
HOW TO SERVE CALIFORNIA ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP
Ladle the soup into bowls and generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese before serving. It pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad!
HOW TO STORE CALIFORNIA ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring often.
TIPS TO MAKE CALIFORNIA ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP
Mix the ingredients for the meatballs gently, Avoid overmixing as it could make the meatballs dense and tough.
If you prefer a more robust flavour in the soup, substitute chicken broth with beef or vegetable broth.
VARIATION (IF ANY)
Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef depending on your preference.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta for this soup?
Yes, you can use any small pasta you like.
2. Can I substitute spinach with other leafy greens?
Yes, you can use kale or swiss chard.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. You can store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat over medium heat, adding more broth or water if needed.