Welcome to a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy! This delightful Italian Wedding Soup with Turkey is not just a meal; it's a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with loved ones. With tender turkey meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and hearty pasta swimming in a rich chicken broth, this dish is a wholesome delight that promises to impress. Ready to discover the secrets behind this comforting classic? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup small pasta (like acini di pepe)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups chopped kale
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix ingredients and form small meatballs about 1-inch in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté vegetables until they become soft and fragrant, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot and bring to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the prepared turkey meatballs to the broth.
- Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes, ensuring meatballs are fully cooked through and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Stir in small pasta and chopped kale. Continue cooking for an additional 8-10 minutes until pasta is tender and kale is wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. If desired, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Serve hot in warm bowls, ensuring each serving contains meatballs, vegetables, and pasta.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or orzo, as they blend seamlessly into the soup and soak up the delicious broth.
- Don’t Rush the Meatballs: Take your time when forming the turkey meatballs. A gentle hand will keep them tender, ensuring they don’t become tough during cooking.
- Sauté for Flavor: Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery until soft enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.
- Simmer Gently: Once you add the meatballs to the broth, let them simmer gently. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without breaking apart the meatballs.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: If you have fresh herbs on hand, consider adding some chopped parsley or basil at the end for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the dish, so don’t hesitate to adjust to your preference.
- Garnish with Cheese: For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. It adds a rich, savory finish that complements the soup perfectly.
- Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have leftovers, store the soup and pasta separately to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. Reheat gently when ready to enjoy again!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 55mg
