Italian Wedding Soup (Minestra Maritata)

 

 

     Italian Wedding Soup has nothing to do with weddings or any kind of celebration. The literal translation, Minestra Maritata, means soup that is married together. Basically it just means the ingredients "wed" well together into a delicious warming and hearty soup with the best flavors.

 

Ingredients:

 

• l/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup parsley
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Romano
• Salt/pepper
•  
• 24 oz chicken stock
• 1/ carrot chopped
• 1 stalk celery chopped
• 1/2 white onion chopped
• 1 bunch greens, (I use escarole, kale, chard)
• 1 cup orzo or acine di pepe

 

1. Combine ground beef, sausage, egg, bread crumbs, parsley, shredded cheese and salt and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
2. In 350 degree oven bake on baking sheet for 30 minutes.
3. Meanwhile in a large stock pot drizzle some olive oil and saute the onion, carrots, and celery.
4. Mix in torn greens and saute until wilted.
5. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
6. Toss in the meatballs and continue to simmer for about 20 minutes.
7. 10 minutes before serving stir in the pasta of choice such as orzo or acine di pepe.

 

This soup's flavors are the perfect meal for not only a cold winters night but anytime of the year.

 

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 plus 30-40
Serves: 4+