**Italian Wedding Soup (Minestra Maritata): A Hearty and Flavorful Union of Meatballs, Vegetables, and Pasta**
Italian wedding soup, also known as minestra maritata in Italian, is a classic Italian soup that embodies the essence of comfort and warmth. This hearty and flavorful soup is characterized by its flavorful broth, tender meatballs, an array of vegetables, and delicate pasta. Originating from southern Italy, particularly the Campania region, Italian wedding soup has become a beloved dish enjoyed across the country and beyond.
This delectable soup is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The meatballs, often made with a combination of ground beef, pork, and veal, are simmered in a rich broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices. The broth is further enriched by the addition of sautéed vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions, creating a symphony of flavors. A variety of small pasta, typically acini di pepe or pastina, adds a delicate touch and provides a satisfying bite.
The name "wedding soup" is derived from the symbolic union of the meatballs and pasta, representing the coming together of two families in marriage. This heartwarming soup is often served at weddings and other special occasions, symbolizing love, prosperity, and abundance.
In this article, we present a collection of Italian wedding soup recipes that capture the essence of this classic dish. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to modern interpretations with a twist, these recipes offer a delightful journey into the world of Italian culinary heritage. Whether you prefer a classic minestra maritata or a contemporary take on this timeless soup, you'll find a recipe that suits your taste and culinary preferences.
MINESTRA MARITATA (ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP)
The perfect marriage of hearty meat and healthy greens, our easy Italian wedding soup recipe is quick and tasty, perfect for a chilly day.Yield: 10 cups
Provided by Sarah | Curious Cuisiniere
Categories Soup
Time 30m
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- In a medium soup pot, add the chicken stock, garlic, parsley, 1/2 of the fresh greens, and 1/2 of the Parmesan cubes. Heat over medium high heat, stirring often, scraping the bottom of the pot to catch any Parmesan that might get stuck.
- Add the remaining greens and cheese as you have room in the pot. Bring to a simmer.
- Add meatballs and simmer until they are heated through.
- Taste and add salt and pepper as desired. Serve with crusty bread and extra, fresh grated, Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 267 kcal, Carbohydrate 23.5 g, Protein 18.3 g, Fat 12.5 g, SaturatedFat 4.2 g, Cholesterol 45 mg, Sodium 900 mg, Fiber 3.9 g, Sugar 3.5 g, ServingSize 1 serving
MINESTRA MARITATA (ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP) RECIPE
Steps:
- Gather the ingredients.
- In a large, deep stockpot, heat the olive oil and garlic over medium heat until the garlic is just fragrant and very lightly colored, about 1 minute. Add the crushed red pepper and simmer for about 30 seconds.
- Add the broth, onion, carrot, celery and sausage pieces, cover, lower the heat to low and simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes. (If you happen to have any leftover Parmigiano-Reggiano rinds, these would be a great addition to enrich your broth! Throw them in together with the onion, carrot, and celery.)
- Meanwhile, blanch the chopped greens in abundant salted boiling water, 1 to 2 minutes, then drain well. This eliminates the excess bitterness.
- Remove the onion, carrot, and celery from the broth and discard (discard any cheese rinds at this point also, if you're using them). Transfer the blanched greens into the broth and let simmer for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the greens are tender and the broth is rich and savory.
- Serve with freshly grated cheese sprinkled on top and slices of grilled or toasted crusty bread. A white wine, such as a Fiano or Greco di Tufo, would be a good pairing.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 1222 kcal, Carbohydrate 22 g, Cholesterol 187 mg, Fiber 4 g, Protein 67 g, SaturatedFat 35 g, Sodium 3478 mg, Sugar 7 g, Fat 95 g, ServingSize 4-6 servings, UnsaturatedFat 0 g
ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP I
Coming from Rhode Island, a very ethnic state, this soup was traditionally served at Italian weddings. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
Provided by Star Pooley
Categories Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes Soup Recipes
Time 50m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- In medium bowl, combine meat, egg, bread crumbs, cheese, basil and onion powder; shape into 3/4 inch balls.
- In large saucepan, heat broth to boiling; stir in escarole, orzo pasta, chopped carrot and meatballs. Return to boil, then reduce heat to medium. Cook at slow boil for 10 minutes, or until pasta is al dente. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 416.3 calories, Carbohydrate 43.3 g, Cholesterol 86.8 mg, Fat 14.2 g, Fiber 2.9 g, Protein 27.3 g, SaturatedFat 5.3 g, Sodium 1211 mg, Sugar 4 g
MINESTRA MARITATA (ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP)
Forget the marble-size meatballs you find in many versions of this Italian Wedding Soup. In this easy recipe, they're full-size, full-flavored and plenty filling.
Provided by Robin Bashinsky
Categories Healthy Italian Soup Recipes
Time 20m
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot, celery and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add broth, cover and bring to a boil. Add orzo, oregano and salt; cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is just tender, about 9 minutes.
- Stir in meatballs and spinach; cook until the meatballs are heated through and the spinach is wilted, 2 to 4 minutes.
- Serve sprinkled with cheese and drizzled with the remaining 3 tablespoons oil.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 415.1 calories, Carbohydrate 36.1 g, Cholesterol 100.6 mg, Fat 19 g, Fiber 3.7 g, Protein 25.8 g, SaturatedFat 4.7 g, Sodium 728 mg, Sugar 5.2 g
ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP (MINESTRA MARITATA)
"Minestra Maritata" translates to married soup. The ingredients blend or "marry" well together, hence the name Minestra Maritata. I'm sure that someone not knowledgeable with the Italian language translated it to "Italian Wedding Soup." It is not a soup Italians serve at weddings. In this recipe, the escarole is cooked separately to remove some of the bitterness and to keep the soup from turning green.
Provided by Alan in SW Florida
Categories Whole Chicken
Time 1h30m
Yield 10-12 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 19
Steps:
- Place first 6 ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a boil., then immediately reduce to a simmer and cook until the chicken easily falls off the bones. Remove chicken from the broth and allow to cool. Reserve the broth. When the chicken has cooled enough to handle, remove all of the meat from the bones and chop meat into small pieces.
- While the soup is cooking, make the meatballs. Mix together the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and chopped parsley. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking pan. Bake in a 350 degree oven until fully cooked, approximately 15 minutes.
- Strain the broth used to cook the chicken. Add the remaining onion, celery, and carrots. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until vegetables are tender.
- Cook the escarole in a separate small pot of boiling salted water until wilted, about 10 minutes. Drain, squeeze dry and add to the broth. Add the cooked chicken, meatballs and cooked, drained pasta. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Heat well and serve accompanied by Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 282.5, Fat 13, SaturatedFat 4.4, Cholesterol 70.8, Sodium 469.4, Carbohydrate 21.7, Fiber 4.3, Sugar 4.6, Protein 19.1
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the soup will be. Look for fresh vegetables, flavorful broth, and high-quality pasta.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: If you add too many ingredients to the pot, the soup will be watery and bland. Add the ingredients in batches, and make sure to give them enough room to cook.
- Simmer the soup for at least 30 minutes: This will allow the flavors to meld and develop. The longer you simmer the soup, the better it will be.
- Season the soup to taste: Add salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste. Be careful not to overseason the soup, as you can always add more seasonings later.
- Serve the soup with a side of grated Parmesan cheese and crusty bread: This will add a delicious finishing touch to the soup.
Conclusion:
Italian wedding soup is a classic Italian soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is made with a flavorful broth, tender meatballs, vegetables, and pasta. This soup is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste. Whether you like your soup hearty or light, vegetarian or meat-based, there is an Italian wedding soup recipe out there for you. So next time you are looking for a comforting and delicious soup, give Italian wedding soup a try.
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