Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables
Highlighted under: FreshGlow Recipes
Enjoy a hearty and comforting Meatball Soup packed with seasonal vegetables. Perfect for chilly days!
This Meatball Soup is not just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl. Made with juicy meatballs and fresh seasonal vegetables, it's a family favorite that brings everyone together around the dinner table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty meatballs that are juicy and flavorful
- Packed with seasonal vegetables for a fresh taste
- A comforting bowl of soup perfect for any occasion
The Comfort of Soup
There's something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially on chilly days. Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables combines the best of both worlds: hearty meatballs and a vibrant assortment of vegetables. Each spoonful not only nourishes the body but also soothes the soul, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
This soup invites you to slow down and savor the moment. The rich aroma of simmering broth fills your kitchen, creating an atmosphere that beckons loved ones to join you at the table. As you share this delicious creation, stories and laughter flow as freely as the soup itself, creating memories that will last long after the last drop is consumed.
Seasonal Ingredients Shine
One of the standout features of Meatball Soup is its use of seasonal vegetables. Carrots, celery, and potatoes are not only delicious but also provide essential nutrients, making this dish a wholesome choice. By using fresh, in-season produce, you'll enhance the flavor profile, ensuring every bite is packed with freshness.
Embracing seasonal ingredients means you can easily adapt this recipe based on what is available at your local market. Whether you swap in sweet potatoes for the regular ones or add in some zucchini during the summer months, the versatility of this soup allows for endless variations while keeping the comforting essence intact.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables is not only a delightful dish to enjoy fresh, but it's also great for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store leftovers in the refrigerator or freeze them for future meals. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeks when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle of cooking every day.
To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened. This makes it easy to enjoy a nutritious, hearty meal in just minutes. Preparing this soup ahead of time means you can indulge in comfort food without compromising on health or flavor.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Meatball Soup:
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything ready before you begin cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious Meatball Soup:
Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cook the Meatballs
In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.
Prepare the Soup Base
In the same pot, add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Add Broth and Vegetables
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add the diced tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Combine and Cook
Return the meatballs to the pot. Simmer for 20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Finish with Greens
Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Your Meatball Soup is ready to be served!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Meatball Soup experience, consider serving it with crusty bread or a side salad. The bread can be used to soak up the delicious broth, while a fresh salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty soup. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness and flavor.
For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can enhance the flavors and add a spicy kick. This flexibility allows you to cater the meal to your personal taste preferences and those of your guests, making it a truly customizable dish.
Nutritional Benefits
This Meatball Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutritional benefits. Ground beef provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, which are vital for maintaining energy levels and a healthy immune system. Adding a variety of vegetables increases the fiber content, promoting good digestion and overall well-being.
Additionally, greens like spinach or kale are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, supporting eye health, immune function, and bone health. With this soup, you’re not just enjoying a delicious meal; you’re also nourishing your body and supporting a healthy lifestyle, making it a win-win for any diner.
Variations to Try
One of the great things about this Meatball Soup is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of meat for the meatballs, such as ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also try incorporating various spices and herbs to add unique flavors that suit your palate.
For a vegetarian twist, substitute the meatballs with plant-based protein or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth. You can also add other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to keep the soup vibrant and nutritious. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a fantastic base for your culinary creativity.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh. Just ensure they are fully thawed before adding to the soup.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day ahead and reheat it when you're ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables
Enjoy a hearty and comforting Meatball Soup packed with seasonal vegetables. Perfect for chilly days!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: FreshGlow Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add the diced tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Return the meatballs to the pot. Simmer for 20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 22g