Ingredients
- Meatballs:
- ½ pound of tender ground venison
- ½ pound of flavorful bulk Italian sausage
- ½ cup of breadcrumbs for a perfect texture
- ½ cup of finely shredded Parmesan cheese for a rich taste
- 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness
- 1 large egg to bind all the ingredients together
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil for a hint of Mediterranean flavor
- Soup:
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil to start off the dish
- 2 ribs of celery, thinly sliced for a crunchy addition
- 1 large carrot, finely chopped for a pop of color
- 1 medium onion, diced to enhance the flavor base
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic for a robust taste
- 2 cartons of chicken broth (32 ounces each) for a hearty soup
- 1 cup of acini di pepe pasta to add a comforting element
- 2 teaspoons of freshly chopped oregano leaves for a fragrant touch
- ½ package of fresh baby spinach (6 ounces) for a nutritious boost
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a zesty kick
- A pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to elevate the flavors
- ¼ cup of finely shredded Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish
Step 1
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine venison, sausage, bread crumbs, a generous half cup of flavorful Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a whole egg. Blend the ingredients thoroughly until they meld harmoniously. Shape the combined mixture into fifty delectable 1-inch meatballs, each promising a burst of savory goodness.
Step 2
Begin by heating a drizzle of oil in a generously sized skillet over medium-high heat. Gently place the meatballs into the skillet, allowing them to sizzle and cook for about 4 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to achieve a perfectly even golden-brown hue on all sides. Once cooked to perfection, delicately transfer the meatballs onto a plate lined with absorbent paper towels to drain.
Step 3
In the same pot, heat another drizzle of oil for the soup. Add in the aromatic trio of celery, carrot, and onion, sautéing them until they turn tender and fragrant, which should take around 5 minutes. Introduce the garlic into the mix, stirring until its delightful aroma fills the air, for about an additional minute. Pour in the broth, allowing it to come to a gentle boil. Stir in the pasta, fragrant oregano, and the previously prepared meatballs. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the flavors meld together as they simmer for a cozy 10 minutes.
Step 4
After turning off the heat, allow the soup to rest and infuse for an additional 5 minutes. Gently fold in the vibrant spinach and a splash of zesty lemon juice. When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each portion is seasoned to taste with a sprinkling of salt and pepper. Finish off this culinary masterpiece by garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.
Extra Tips & Suggestions
- 1. Begin by finely chopping fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, and parsley to enhance the aroma and flavor of your Italian Wedding Soup.
- 2. To keep your homemade meatballs moist and tender, store them in an airtight container lined with a damp paper towel to lock in the moisture.






