Ingredients

6 cups good quality chicken broth ( see my Kittencal 's Best Chicken Stock/Broth ( Crock Pot Option ) )
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper ( or to taste )
1 tablespoon lemon zest ( or the zest from 1 lemon )
2 cups finely sliced escarole ( or use spinach )
1/2 cup uncooked orzo pasta ( or use 1 cup cooked rice added in at the end )
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese ( more for sprinkling ) ( optional )
1/4 lb extra lean ground beef
1/4 lb ground pork ( or use 1/2 pound ground beef )
2 tablespoons fresh minced parsley
1 egg , slightly beaten
2 garlic cloves , minced
1 green onion , finely chopped ( use white part only )
2 tablespoons dry breadcrumbs
3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt or 1/2 teaspoon white salt
1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Italian wedding soup is a classic Italian-American soup traditionally served at weddings. The soup has many variations, but it always consists of meatballs and green vegetables in a clear broth. Some versions include pasta, rice, or potatoes. The name 'wedding soup' is a mistranslation of the Italian phrase 'minestra maritata,' which actually means 'married soup,' referring to the way the meat and vegetables blend together in harmony. This recipe is a slightly modified version of the original, created by Kittencal, a popular food blogger and recipe developer.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium heat.
2.Add black pepper and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
3.Add escarole or spinach. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4.Add orzo pasta and cook for 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
5.In a bowl, use a fork to lightly beat the egg and add ground beef and pork, parsley, garlic, onion, breadcrumbs, 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, seasoning salt or white salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
6.Shape the meat mixture into 3/4-inch balls. Add to the soup and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
7.Serve hot. Sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese if desired.

PROS

This soup is a hearty and satisfying meal that will warm you up on a chilly day.
It’s packed with protein and a variety of vegetables that benefit your health.

CONS

The orzo pasta and cheese add carbohydrates and calories to the soup, so it may not be an ideal choice for those looking to lose weight or restrict carb intake.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Escarole and spinach provide a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, A, and C, and folate. Chicken broth contains collagen and amino acids that promote healthy skin, hair, and nails. The meatballs provide protein and iron, which is important for muscle growth and red blood cell production.

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