Creating soup is a work of art. Always start with fresh ingredients and never be afraid to get creative. The best soups are usually those with a touch of spontaneity added to the mix.
When the cold winter months hit and you’re doing everything you can stay cozy and warm inside, add these five Italian soups to your meal plan that can be eaten for lunch or dinner and paired with crusty, Italian bread.
1.Minestrone
This classic bean and vegetable soup is thick and hearty. Served piping hot with crumbled up crackers, this dish will warm your belly and leave you totally satisfied – Italian style. Use fresh ingredients for a healthy, flavorful soup.
2.Italian Winter Soup
Break out the turkey substitute in place of red meat with this hearty winter soup. Thick with turkey sausage, cannelloni beans and bow-tie pasta, this soup is as filling as it is healthy. Tip: Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes when making this soup. It’s easy. Simply boil the tomatoes for about five minutes and then remove. After they cool off, peel off the skins and mash the pulpy tomato and you’ve just made your own freshly crushed tomatoes!
3.Italian Wedding Soup
A wonderful soup for any time of year, Italian Style Wedding Soup is a deliciously hot addition to your winter meal menu. To get those little meatballs just right, use a combination of beef and pork along with parsley, onion and garlic. Mmm! In pace of spinach, add fresh escarole and don’t forget the tiny balls of perfect pastene that complete this dish.
4.Italian Lentil Soup
In the spirit of tradition, the Italians never miss eating lentils at midnight on New Year’s Eve for good fortune the upcoming New Year. The lentil is chosen as a good luck food because of its coin-like shape, which symbolizes prosperity. This soup can be made with or without meat and is tremendously filling and healthy.
5.Prosciutto and Bean Soup
If it’s comfort food you’re looking for, then look to the Italians and their Prosciutto and Bean Soup. This is a thick, hearty and delicious soup that tastes great with crusty bread to dunk into your bowl. Use the freshest ingredients you can gather, including beans, fresh tomatoes, and herbs and spices. Add some hot peppers to give the cold outside and extra kick.
There is a good chance you have never enjoyed genuine Italian dishes. Stop on in for dinner at L’amore Italian Restaurant to experience the taste of real Italian food.