Italian Meatball Soup 

This hearty and comforting Italian Meatball Soup combines tender homemade meatballs with a flavorful broth, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It's a perfect dish for cozy evenings, offering both nutrition and satisfaction in every spoonful.

 Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 6 cups chicken or beef broth

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Fresh basil and parsley for garnish

• Salt and pepper, to taste

 Directions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

2. Brown the Meatballs:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides for about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add diced carrots and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

4. Simmer the Soup:
   Pour in the chicken or beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Return the browned meatballs to the pot. Stir in fresh spinach and dried oregano. Let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors meld together.

5. Season and Serve:
   Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and parsley. Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top.

 Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 268 kcal

• Protein: 14 g

• Fat: 13 g

• Carbohydrates: 22 g

• Fiber: 5 g

• Sodium: 1,052 mg

• Cholesterol: 37 mg