Spring Minestrone With Chicken Meatballs

Submitted by Chef #494084

"This is taken directly from Bon Apetite. It is very versatile and a wonderful spring-y soup--healthy too!"

 

• Ready In: 45mins
• Ingredients: 14
• Yields: Bowls
• Serves: 4

ingredients

• 6 ounces ground chicken (about 3/4 cup)
• 1⁄2 cup fresh breadcrumb
• 6 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese, divided, plus more for garnish
• 4 garlic cloves, 2 minced, 2 thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 1 large egg, whisked to blend
• kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 leek, white and pale-green parts only, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 3⁄4 cup ditalini or 3/4 cup other small shell pasta
• 1 cup peeled carrot, cut in 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 cup packed Baby Spinach
• fresh basil, chopped

directions

1. Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, 3 tablespoons Parmesan, 2 minced garlic cloves, chives, egg, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl. Form into 1/2"-diameter meatballs (makes about 28).
2. Heat oil in a small pot over medium heat. Cook meatballs until golden all over, about 3 minutes (they will finish cooking in soup). Transfer to a plate; set aside.
3. Add leek to pot and cook, stirring often, until beginning to soften, about 3 minutes. Add 2 thinly sliced garlic cloves; cook for 1 minute. Add broth and 2 cups water; bring to a boil. Stir in pasta and carrots; simmer until pasta is almost al dente, about 8 minutes. Add meatballs; simmer until pasta is al dente, carrots are tender, and meatballs are cooked through, about 3 minutes. Add spinach and remaining 3 tablespoons Parmesan; stir until spinach is wilted and Parmesan is melted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped basil and Parmesan.

Reviews

[krismiscook]

I love this soup! Very flavorful. I think the meatballs are very tasty (you have to make sure to make small meatballs). I've made this recipe at least 5 times without alteration since I got the magazine in April.

 

[Lori Mama]

Lovely fresh soup. I felt there was a little something missing in the meatballs, but otherwise very nice recipe. Made for New Kids on the Block Tag game. :)