Vegan Italian Wedding Soup Recipe
Vegan Italian Wedding Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or a hearty meal prep option for the whole family. This plant-based twist on a classic Italian recipe combines juicy vegan meatballs, tender baby spinach, and tiny pasta shapes in a savory broth. Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a celebration of flavors in every bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 medium onion chopped: Forms the base of the soup.
- 2 carrots diced: Adds natural sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks diced: Complements the carrots and onions.
- 3 garlic cloves minced: For added depth and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Provides classic Italian flavors.
- 1 bay leaf: Enhances the aroma of the broth.
- 6 cups vegetable broth: Creates a savory base or use vegan chicken broth.
- 1 cup small pasta couscous, orzo, or acini de pepe: Adds a hearty texture.
- 1 package 10-12 oz vegan meatballs: Use store-bought or homemade.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Adds fresh green nutrients.
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast: Enhances the umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens up the soup.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: To season as needed.
- Optional toppings: Fresh parsley red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese.
- Feel free to adjust quantities based on your serving size or preferences! This recipe serves about 4-6 people.
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil, then sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Flavor the broth: Stir in Italian seasoning, bay leaf, and garlic powder. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing it to a low boil.
- Add pasta: Stir in couscous or your preferred small pasta. Cook until just tender.
- Cook the meatballs: In a separate container or directly in the pot, simmer the vegan meatballs until heated through.
- Incorporate greens: Add baby spinach and cook until wilted.
- Finish with flavor: Remove from heat and stir in fresh herbs, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
- Serve: Ladle into a large bowl and garnish with fresh parsley or vegan parmesan cheese.