Delicious & Healthy Italian Wedding Soup: An Easy Recipe with Lean Turkey Meatballs

Are you searching for a bowl of comfort that doesn’t compromise on health or flavor? Look no further! This easy-to-make Italian Wedding Soup recipe offers a delightful blend of simple, wholesome ingredients. Featuring tender turkey meatballs, vibrant healthy greens, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered in a light, flavorful broth, it’s the perfect lighter and healthier take on a beloved classic. Whether you’re battling a chilly day or simply craving a nourishing meal, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy your soul and tantalize your taste buds.

Classic Comfort, Modern Twist: Our Italian Wedding Soup

Certain recipes become timeless favorites, staples we return to again and again. Our Italian Wedding Soup is precisely one of those cherished dishes. Today, we’re not just sharing an old favorite; we’re updating it to make it even more accessible and delicious for modern home cooks, proving that classic comfort food can indeed be light and remarkably healthy.

Given the persistent cold and snowy weather many of us experience, a rotation of hearty soups is a must-have in any kitchen. This particular Italian Wedding Soup recipe offers a wonderfully comforting bowl that is both deeply satisfying and incredibly nutritious. We craft our version with lean turkey meatballs, which simmer beautifully in a flavorful, light broth alongside vibrant healthy greens, fresh vegetables, and delicate small pasta.

You might be wondering if this differs from the traditional Italian Wedding Soup found in many restaurants, and you’d be right. While honoring the spirit of the original, we love to put our own spin on classic dishes to enhance their nutritional value and simplify the process without sacrificing taste. This recipe embraces that philosophy, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved Italian staple.

If you, like us, adore the rich, comforting flavors of Italian cuisine, we highly recommend exploring some of our other Italian-inspired soup creations. Dive into our Homemade Minestrone, savor the freshness of our Spring Vegetable Minestrone, enjoy the rustic charm of Tuscan Bean Soup, or indulge in our hearty Tortellini Sausage Soup recipes. For all soup enthusiasts, be sure to visit our extensive soup section on the blog and add some new favorites to your weekly menu!

Why This Italian Wedding Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

There are countless reasons why this particular Italian Wedding Soup recipe stands out and is destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. We’ve designed it to be as convenient and adaptable as it is delicious.

• Bursting with Flavor: The foundation of this soup is a rich and aromatic vegetable broth, deeply infused with sautéed aromatics and herbs. The addition of perfectly seasoned, lean turkey meatballs elevates the flavor profile, creating a symphony of tastes that is both comforting and incredibly satisfying. Each spoonful delivers a hearty, herbaceous, and savory experience.
• Effortless to Double (or Triple!): Planning a dinner party, feeding a large family, or simply want extra for leftovers? This recipe is incredibly easy to scale up. You can effortlessly double or even triple the ingredients to accommodate more diners without any complex adjustments, making it perfect for gatherings or when you need a generous batch of delicious food.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: We understand the importance of efficient meal planning. That’s why this Italian Wedding Soup is a fantastic candidate for batch cooking. Many home cooks, ourselves included, dedicate time on the weekend to prepare larger quantities of dishes. This soup freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy half immediately and stash the rest for quick, healthy lunches and dinners throughout the busy week. It’s a true time-saver!
• Lighter & Healthier Comfort: By opting for lean ground turkey and a generous amount of fresh vegetables and greens, this soup offers all the comfort of traditional Italian Wedding Soup but with a significantly lighter nutritional footprint. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a hearty, warming meal.
• Customizable to Your Taste: From swapping out proteins to experimenting with different types of pasta and greens, this recipe is wonderfully versatile. It encourages creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to adapt it to your family’s preferences or whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand.

Essential Ingredients & Smart Substitutions for Your Soup

Crafting the perfect Italian Wedding Soup begins with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some helpful substitutions to make this recipe your own:

• Oil – We highly recommend using good quality olive oil for sautéing your vegetables. Its distinctive nutty and fruity notes provide an excellent flavor base for the soup. However, if olive oil isn’t available or preferred, you can easily substitute it with any light-flavored oil such as vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or avocado oil.
• Base Flavors – The soul of any great soup lies in its aromatic foundation. We build ours by gently sautéing sweet onion, fragrant garlic, and sweet carrots. These three ingredients create a harmonious and robust flavor profile that serves as the perfect starting point for your broth.
• Broth – For a deep, savory taste, we use a good quality chicken broth. It provides a rich background that complements the meatballs and vegetables beautifully. For a vegetarian or vegan version, a high-quality vegetable broth makes an excellent substitute.
• Herbs – A single teaspoon of dried oregano is all it takes to infuse the soup with classic Italian herbal notes, adding warmth and depth to every spoonful. Fresh oregano can also be used, simply use about a tablespoon of chopped fresh leaves.
• Tomatoes – A can of diced tomatoes adds a touch of acidity and a subtle sweetness to the broth, enhancing its overall complexity. You can use regular diced tomatoes or fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra smoky depth. If you prefer a clear broth without tomato chunks, you can omit them or use a tablespoon of tomato paste for concentrated flavor.
• Greens – We love the slightly bitter and firm texture of escarole in this soup, and typically add a whole head (about 1 pound), trimmed and coarsely chopped. Escarole holds up well to simmering. If escarole isn’t readily available, you can substitute with other healthy greens like Swiss chard, fresh spinach (add at the very end as it wilts quickly), or chopped kale.
• Pasta – For that authentic Italian Wedding Soup experience, we recommend using tiny pasta shapes like acini de pepe. Its small, pearl-like shape is perfect for soup. Other small pasta varieties like orzo, ditalini, or even pastina would also work wonderfully. Ensure to cook it directly in the soup for maximum flavor absorption.
• Cheese – A generous garnish of freshly grated Parmesan cheese is essential for serving. It adds a salty, umami finish that truly completes the dish. Pecorino Romano is another excellent, sharper alternative.

Ingredients for Our Delicious Turkey Meatballs

Our lean turkey meatballs are the star of this lighter Italian Wedding Soup. They are simple to prepare and pack a ton of flavor:

• Turkey – We use one pound of lean ground turkey. This amount yields enough meatballs to comfortably serve 6 people, ensuring everyone gets a good share. Using turkey keeps the meatballs lighter and healthier than traditional beef or pork.
• Egg – A single large, lightly beaten egg acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the meatballs together while also adding a touch of moisture, preventing them from drying out.
• Breadcrumbs – Plain dried breadcrumbs are incorporated into the meatball mixture. They absorb moisture and help create a tender, flavorful meatball texture. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
• Cheese – Finely grated Parmesan cheese is mixed directly into the meatballs, infusing them with a savory, salty kick that enhances the overall Italian flavor profile.
• Seasoning – Simple seasonings are often the best. We use a good pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to season the meatballs, bringing out their natural flavors.
• Garlic – A clove or two of minced garlic in the meatballs adds an extra layer of aromatic deliciousness.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make This Delicious Italian Wedding Soup

Creating this flavorful and healthy Italian Wedding Soup is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a truly rewarding culinary experience:

1. Prepare the Turkey Meatballs: In a spacious mixing bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, minced garlic, lightly beaten egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a seasoning of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands to mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can make meatballs tough. Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized turkey meatballs, aiming for about 1-inch in diameter (or slightly smaller for quicker cooking). Arrange them neatly on a plate as you form them.
2. Sauté the Aromatic Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced sweet onion and sauté for about 1 minute until it begins to soften and become translucent. Next, add the minced garlic, chopped carrots, and dried oregano. Continue to sauté for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots begin to tenderize and the aromatics release their fragrant oils. This step builds the foundational flavor for your soup.
3. Simmer the Soup and Cook Meatballs: Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, carefully add the prepared turkey meatballs to the pot. Resist the urge to stir immediately; allow them to cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface, indicating they are firming up. After the meatballs have surfaced, add the trimmed and coarsely chopped escarole and the acini de pepe pasta to the pot. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, until the escarole has completely wilted and the pasta is tender to your liking. Ensure the meatballs are cooked through; they typically take about 12 minutes total to reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees F.
4. Season, Garnish, and Serve: Taste the soup and season generously with additional salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors. Ladle the hot Italian Wedding Soup into individual bowls. For an authentic touch, sprinkle each serving with a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with warm, crusty bread or focaccia for dipping, and enjoy this comforting and healthy meal!

Creative Recipe Modifications for Your Italian Wedding Soup

One of the best aspects of this Italian Wedding Soup recipe is its incredible versatility. Feel free to experiment with these modifications to suit your dietary needs, preferences, or what you have available in your pantry:

• Meatball Variations: While our recipe features lean ground turkey for a healthier option, you can certainly swap it out for other proteins. For a more traditional flavor, use ground beef, ground pork, or a combination of beef and pork for your meatballs. You could also try ground chicken for another lean alternative.
• Pasta Alternatives: We love acini de pepe for its tiny, delicate texture, but any small pasta shape will work beautifully. Orzo pasta, ditalini, pastina, or even small macaroni can be used. For a gluten-free option, ensure to use a small gluten-free pasta and follow its cooking instructions, as cooking times may vary.
• Green Power-Ups: Escarole provides a wonderful texture and slight bitterness, but don’t hesitate to use your favorite leafy greens. Swiss chard, fresh spinach (stir in during the last few minutes as it wilts quickly), or chopped kale are excellent and nutritious alternatives.
• Boost Your Veggies: This soup is already packed with vegetables, but you can always add more! Consider incorporating diced zucchini, bell peppers (any color), green beans, or thinly sliced celery for extra flavor, texture, and nutrients. Add heartier vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes earlier in the simmering process.
• Make it Plant-Based: Transforming this into a delicious vegetarian or vegan soup is simple. Omit the turkey meatballs entirely and use a good quality vegetable broth. For protein, add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini (white) beans, chickpeas, or even small lentil pasta. Nutritional yeast can also be added for a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the oregano for a subtle kick.

Expert Tips for the Best Italian Wedding Soup

Achieving a perfect bowl of Italian Wedding Soup is easy with a few helpful hints. These tips will ensure your soup is flavorful, well-textured, and convenient for future meals:

• Meatball Size Matters: While you have the freedom to choose the size of your meatballs, we find that smaller meatballs (about 1 inch or less) work best in soup. They not only cook more quickly and evenly but are also easier to eat with a spoon, ensuring a balanced bite with broth, pasta, and greens. Aim for consistent sizing for uniform cooking.
• Flavor Development & “Make Ahead” Magic: This soup is truly one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld and deepen as it sits. If you’re planning ahead, we highly recommend preparing the soup earlier in the day or even a full day before you plan to serve it. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to enjoy.
• Storing Leftovers Properly: To keep any remaining soup fresh and delicious, transfer it to an airtight container. It will store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating Leftovers: When it’s time to reheat, simply pour the desired amount of soup into a pot on the stove and warm it over medium heat until it is piping hot. If the soup appears too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of water or extra broth to achieve your desired consistency. You can also add a handful of fresh greens or herbs (like parsley or basil) to refresh the flavors.
• Freezing for Future Meals: This soup is incredibly freezer-friendly! Once completely cooked and cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, defrost thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove as described above.
• Batch-Cooking Meatballs for Efficiency: To save even more time in the future, consider doubling the recipe for the turkey meatballs. Bake half of them on a baking sheet at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes (or until an internal temperature of 160 degrees F is reached). Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe ziplock bag. These pre-cooked meatballs are perfect for quick additions to pasta sauces, other soups, or a speedy meal for your little ones throughout the week.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Italian Wedding Soup

This Italian Wedding Soup is a complete and incredibly satisfying meal on its own, offering a delightful combination of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. However, if you’re looking to elevate your dining experience or simply want to add a little something extra, here are some simple yet perfect accompaniments:

• Artisan Breads: Nothing beats dipping a piece of warm bread into a savory soup. Opt for a crusty artisanal loaf, warm focaccia bread, or a fresh baguette. The texture contrast is wonderful, and it’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth. Garlic bread is also a fantastic choice to complement the Italian flavors.
• Light and Fresh Salads: A crisp, refreshing salad provides a lovely counterpoint to the warmth and richness of the soup. Try pairing it with our Simple Massaged Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing for a vibrant, healthy option, our zesty Mediterranean Bean Salad, or a peppery Lemon Arugula Salad with Pine Nuts. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would also be perfect.
• Hearty Potato Sides: For a more substantial meal, a side of roasted potatoes can be incredibly comforting. Explore our flavorful Paprika Roasted Potatoes with Spiced Yogurt Sauce, or our aromatic Lemon Cilantro Roasted Potatoes. The soft texture of potatoes complements the soup wonderfully.
• Simple Appetizers: A small plate of olives, a spread of bruschetta, or some marinated artichoke hearts can be a nice starter before diving into the main course.

Explore More Hearty & Comforting Soup Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the warmth and flavor of our Italian Wedding Soup, you’re in for a treat! We have a wide array of hearty and soul-satisfying soup recipes designed to bring comfort and deliciousness to your table. From creamy concoctions to zesty broths, there’s a soup for every craving and every season. Don’t miss out on these other family favorites:

EASY SAUSAGE GNOCCHI SOUP: A delightful, creamy soup featuring soft gnocchi and savory sausage.

HEARTY CHICKEN LENTIL SOUP: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both nourishing and deeply flavorful.

ZESTY MEXICAN CHICKEN LIME SOUP: A vibrant and refreshing soup with a tangy kick, perfect for a lighter meal.

RICH ITALIAN SAUSAGE SOUP: A robust and satisfying soup loaded with Italian sausage and fresh vegetables.

CREAMY CHICKEN ENCHILADA SOUP: All the beloved flavors of enchiladas in a comforting, spoonable form.

CLASSIC CHICKEN POTATO SOUP: A timeless favorite, this creamy and chunky soup is the ultimate comfort food.

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5 from 1 vote

Italian Wedding Soup

By
Julia Jolliff

Prep:

20 minutes
mins

Cook:

15 minutes
mins

Total:

35 minutes
mins

Servings:

6
servings

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Saved
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This easy to make Italian Wedding Soup recipe is full of the simple, delicious flavors of healthy greens, vegetables and turkey meatballs in a light broth.

Ingredients 

• 
  ▢
  
  
  2
  Tablespoons
  olive oil

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1/2
  sweet onion,
  diced

• 
  ▢
  
  
  2
  cloves
  garlic ,
  minced

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  teaspoon
  oregano

• 
  ▢
  
  
  2
  carrots,
  peeled, chopped

• 
  ▢
  
  
  32
  ounces
  chicken broth

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  can
  diced tomatoes

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  escarole,
  1 pound total trimmed and coarsely chopped {you can sub spinach or kale}

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  cup
  acini de pepe pasta,
  or other small pasta

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  pound
  ground turkey

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  large
  egg,
  lightly beaten

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1/2
  cup
  breadcrumbs

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1/2
  cup
  Parmesan cheese,
  grated, plus more for garnish

• 
  ▢
  
  
  Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions 

• In a large mixing bowl combine turkey, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and a dash of salt and pepper. Form the turkey mixture into 1-inch {or a bit smaller} turkey meatballs and set on a plate.
• In a large pot heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 1 minute. Add the garlic, carrots and oregano and continue to sauté for 4-5 minutes.
• Add broth and tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Add the meatballs and cook without stirring, until meatballs float to surface (about 5 minutes). Add escarole and pasta to the pot and simmer until the escarole is wilted and the pasta is soft making sure the meatballs are cooked through (the meatballs took about 12 minutes total to reach 160 degrees).
• Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve with warm bread for dipping.

Notes

• When I make this recipe I double the recipe for the turkey meatballs and throw half of them in the oven at 350 for about 30 minutes
  
  (or until the temperature inside the meatball reaches 160 degrees).
  
  I let them cool and put them in a Ziplock bag to freeze for later. They are perfect to use throughout the week to feed my little one or to throw in a batch of pasta sauce.
• I use 1 head of escarole {or a bit less} and chop it up into small pieces. If you can’t find that feel free to use spinach or kale.
• My husband doesn’t always like tomatoes in soup so sometimes I leave that out and do more broth in its place. You can also used fire roasted tomatoes in place of diced.
• If you want to leave the meat out you can use vegetable broth and add beans. Try white beans or chickpeas for protein.
• Feel free to add more vegetables to this soup. I like adding zucchini, bell peppers and celery sometimes.

Nutrition

Calories:
307
kcal

,

Carbohydrates:
27
g

,

Protein:
28
g

,

Fat:
10
g

,

Saturated Fat:
3
g

,

Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g

,

Monounsaturated Fat:
5
g

,

Trans Fat:
0.02
g

,

Cholesterol:
81
mg

,

Sodium:
849
mg

,

Potassium:
738
mg

,

Fiber:
5
g

,

Sugar:
5
g

,

Vitamin A:
5240
IU

,

Vitamin C:
13
mg

,

Calcium:
204
mg

,

Iron:
3
mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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