Meatball soup

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 6

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups (2 liters) beef or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or small shells)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chopped spinach or kale (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Meatballs (Medium Intensity):
   • In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
   • Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Brown Meatballs (Medium-High Intensity):
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides. Once browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables (Medium Intensity):
   • In the same pot, add chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add Broth and Tomatoes (Low Intensity):
   • Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add Pasta and Herbs (Medium-High Intensity):
   • Stir in the small pasta, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook until the pasta is al dente, following the package instructions.
6. Return Meatballs (Low Intensity):
   • Return the browned meatballs to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Add Greens (Low Intensity):
   • If using, stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it wilt into the soup.
8. Check Seasoning (Low Intensity):
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve (Low Intensity):
   • Ladle the meatball soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
10. Enjoy your Hearty Meatball and Vegetable Soup! (Low Intensity):

Note: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or add a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. This soup is even more flavorful when made ahead and reheated. Adjust the pasta quantity based on your preference.