Vegan Italian Wedding Soup is a classic comfort dish known for its rich broth, tender meatballs, and fresh greens. Despite its name, the soup has nothing to do with weddings. Instead, it comes from the Italian phrase minestra maritata, which means “married soup.” This refers to the perfect blend of greens, broth, and meatballs.
This Vegan Italian Wedding Soup keeps all the flavor and warmth of the original but without meat or dairy. Instead, it uses lentil or chickpea meatballs, fresh vegetables, and small pasta to create a nutritious, plant-based version of this beloved dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich & Hearty – Vegan meatballs add texture and protein.
Plant-Based & Dairy-Free – A fully vegan take on a traditional soup.
Simple & Comforting – Uses easy-to-find ingredients for a homemade, feel-good meal.
Let’s explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and serving suggestions to make this Vegan Italian Wedding Soup at home!
Ingredients for Vegan Italian Wedding Soup
A great Vegan Italian Wedding Soup starts with simple ingredients that bring out deep, comforting flavors.
Vegan Meatballs:
- Cooked lentils or chickpeas – Adds protein and a hearty texture.
- Breadcrumbs and ground flaxseed – Helps the meatballs hold their shape.
- Garlic and onion – Adds flavor and depth.
- Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, basil, parsley) – Brings classic Italian seasoning.
Broth & Soup Base:
- Vegetable broth – A rich, flavorful base.
- Carrots, celery, and onion – The key vegetables for soup.
- Garlic – Enhances the taste with a warm, savory kick.
- Bay leaves, oregano, and thyme – Adds authentic Italian flavors.
Greens & Pasta:
- Chopped kale, escarole, or spinach – Brings vitamins and freshness.
- Small pasta like orzo or acini di pepe – Adds texture and makes the soup more filling.
With these plant-based ingredients, your Vegan Italian Wedding Soup will be warm, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Vegan Italian Wedding Soup is easy with these simple steps.
1: Prepare the Vegan Meatballs
- Mash cooked lentils or chickpeas in a bowl until slightly chunky.
- Add breadcrumbs, flaxseed, garlic, onion, and Italian herbs. Mix well.
- Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3: Simmer the Broth
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add bay leaves, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes.
4: Cook the Pasta & Greens
- Stir in the orzo or acini di pepe pasta and cook according to package instructions.
- Add the chopped kale, escarole, or spinach, stirring until wilted.
5: Assemble & Serve
- Gently place the vegan meatballs into the soup.
- Stir everything together and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
For another hearty, family-friendly meal, check out this Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe Recipe—a fun and flavorful dish perfect for pairing with comforting soups like this one.
Now, your Vegan Italian Wedding Soup is ready to enjoy!
Best Ways to Serve & Pair This Vegan Italian Wedding Soup
To make this soup even more delicious, try pairing it with the right garnishes, side dishes, and drinks.
Garnishes for Extra Flavor:
- Fresh parsley – Adds brightness.
- Nutritional yeast – A dairy-free alternative to Parmesan cheese.
- Olive oil drizzle – Enhances richness.
Best Side Dishes:
- Crusty bread – Great for dipping.
- Garlic knots – A classic Italian pairing.
- Simple green salad – Light and refreshing.
Beverage Pairings:
- White wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) – Pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
- Sparkling water with lemon – Refreshing and cleansing.
- Herbal tea (Chamomile or Mint) – A cozy, relaxing choice.
With these pairings, your Vegan Italian Wedding Soup will be a complete, restaurant-style meal.
Storage, Reheating, & Variations
This soup is great for meal prep. Follow these tips to keep it fresh.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prevent Overcooking: Store the pasta separately if you plan to keep leftovers.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup without pasta for the best texture. It stays fresh for up to 3 months.
Best Reheating Methods:
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally. Add broth if needed.
- Microwave: Reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Recipe Variations:
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Extra Protein: Stir in white beans or tofu crumbles.
For more plant-based recipe ideas, check out this guide to high-protein vegan soups to find new ways to boost nutrition in your meals.
Conclusion
This Vegan Italian Wedding Soup is a warm, comforting, and protein-rich dish that’s perfect for any season. With savory lentil meatballs, fresh greens, and a flavorful broth, this soup is a plant-based take on a beloved classic.
You can keep it traditional or customize it by adding extra spice, swapping greens, or including more protein. Plus, with easy storage and reheating tips, this recipe is great for meal prep and leftovers.
Now it’s your turn! Try this Vegan Italian Wedding Soup recipe and share your favorite variations in the comments. What did you add to make it your own?