Ground turkey: the unexpected star of a savory italian wedding soup
What To Know
- Join us as we explore this delicious variation and provide a step-by-step recipe to help you create a delectable Italian wedding soup with ground turkey.
- Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional Italian wedding soup or simply want to try something new, making Italian wedding soup with ground turkey is a great option.
- You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, but smaller pasta varieties, such as acini di pepe or orzo, will cook more quickly and give the soup a more traditional texture.
Italian wedding soup, a beloved Italian-American classic, is renowned for its flavorful broth, tender meatballs, and delicate pasta. Traditionally made with beef or pork meatballs, this versatile soup can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the question: Can you make Italian wedding soup with ground turkey? The answer is a resounding yes! Join us as we explore this delicious variation and provide a step-by-step recipe to help you create a delectable Italian wedding soup with ground turkey.
Why Ground Turkey?
Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to traditional ground beef or pork, making it a healthier choice. It’s also a versatile ingredient that can be seasoned and flavored to mimic the taste of beef or pork. By using ground turkey in Italian wedding soup, you can reduce the fat content while maintaining the hearty and flavorful qualities of the original dish.
Ingredients for Italian Wedding Soup with Ground Turkey
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta (such as acini di pepe or orzo)
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
1. Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
2. Cook the meatballs: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Make the soup: Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
4. Add the pasta: Stir in the small pasta and cook according to the package directions.
5. Add the spinach: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Making the Best Italian Wedding Soup with Ground Turkey
- Use high-quality ground turkey for the best flavor.
- Season the meatballs well with salt and pepper to enhance their taste.
- Don’t overcook the meatballs, as they will become tough.
- Use a small pasta that will cook quickly and won’t overpower the soup.
- Add other vegetables to your soup, such as carrots, celery, or onions, for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations on Italian Wedding Soup with Ground Turkey
- Vegetarian Italian Wedding Soup: Omit the ground turkey and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, for a hearty and flavorful vegetarian soup.
- Gluten-Free Italian Wedding Soup: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and gluten-free pasta to make this soup suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Creamy Italian Wedding Soup: Add 1 cup of heavy cream to the soup for a richer and creamier texture.
In a nutshell: A Delicious and Versatile Soup Option
Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional Italian wedding soup or simply want to try something new, making Italian wedding soup with ground turkey is a great option. This versatile soup is easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and sure to please everyone at the table. So, next time you’re craving a hearty and flavorful soup, give this ground turkey variation a try.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for ground turkey in this recipe.
Q: What if I don’t have small pasta?
A: You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, but smaller pasta varieties, such as acini di pepe or orzo, will cook more quickly and give the soup a more traditional texture.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it over medium heat until warmed through.
Q: What can I serve with Italian wedding soup?
A: Italian wedding soup pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple salad.
