This hearty and flavorful soup is the perfect balance of comfort and brightness, with tender meatballs, nutritious kale, and a hint of zesty lemon. Ideal for a cozy meal on a chilly day!
📝 Ingredients:
- 🍖 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 🍞 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
- 🫒 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 🧅 1 onion, chopped
- 🥕 2 carrots, diced
- 🌿 2 celery stalks, diced
- 🥣 4 cups chicken broth
- 🍅 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 🥬 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
- 🍋 Juice of 1 lemon
- 🍋 Lemon slices for garnish
📋 Directions:
- 🍖 Prepare the Meatballs:
In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs. - 🔥 Brown the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside. - 🧅 Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. - 🥣 Add Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil. - 🍖 Simmer with Meatballs:
Reduce the heat to a simmer and return the meatballs to the pot. Let them cook for about 10 minutes. - 🥬 Add Kale and Lemon Juice:
Stir in the chopped kale and lemon juice. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the kale is tender. - ✨ Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with lemon slices for an extra zesty touch.
📊 Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 30 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 45 minutes
🔥 Calories: ~280 kcal per serving
🍽️ Servings: 4