Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons red chili pepper flakes
3 leeks , cleaned and diced
4 garlic cloves , crushed
3 carrots , diced
5 celery , diced
2 cans diced tomatoes
3 cans chicken stock
1 can cannellini beans
1/2 cup water
1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef ( prefer chuck )
1/2 Italian style breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup grated romano cheese
1/3 cup chopped herbs ( parsley and mint work well )
2 eggs
1 teaspoon salt and pepper
1 rotisserie-cooked chicken , shredded without skin
1 head chopped escarole
2 lemons , zest of
1/2 cup chopped parsley
grated romano cheese , for serving
Sicilian Chicken Meatball Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is popular in the southern Italian region of Sicily, where it is commonly served as a filling and comforting meal. The soup is a combination of juicy meatballs, tender shredded chicken, and fresh vegetables in a rich tomato broth. It is an easy, one-pot recipe that is perfect for any night of the week, and leftovers can be easily stored and reheated for a satisfying lunch the next day. This soup is also versatile, as you can substitute the chicken, or adjust the amounts of spices and vegetables, depending on your preferences.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, romano cheese, herbs, eggs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2.Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
3.In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the red chili pepper flakes, leeks, garlic, carrots, and celery.
4.Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5.Add the diced tomatoes, chicken stock, cannellini beans, and water to the pot and bring to a boil.
6.Add the meatballs to the pot and lower the heat to a simmer.
7.Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, then add the shredded chicken, escarole, and lemon zest.
8.Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
9.Serve hot with grated romano cheese on top.

PROS

This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal that will keep you full for longer periods of time.

It also has a rich flavor and is easy to prepare.

CONS

The recipe has a considerable amount of fat due to the addition of olive oil and ground beef.

As with any dish made with canned ingredients, it may have high sodium levels, so it is important to use low-sodium options where possible.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This soup is loaded with beneficial nutrients such as protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals found in the vegetables.
The protein in this soup can aid in muscle growth and repair, while the fiber can promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of heart disease. The vegetables in this soup are also associated with reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.

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