Spring Minestrone With Chicken Meatballs

Ingredients for Spring Minestrone With Chicken Meatballs

• 170g chicken mince (about 80g )

• 60g fresh breadcrumbs

• 6 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan, divided, plus more for garnish

• 4 garlic cloves, 2 minced, 2 thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

• 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" rounds

• 1200ml low-salt chicken broth

• 180ml ditalini or other small pasta

• 130g 1/2" rounds peeled carrots

• 1 cup (packed) baby spinach

• Chopped fresh basil

Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, 3 tablespoons Parmesan, 2 minced garlic cloves, chives, egg, 3/4 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoons pepper in a medium bowl. Form into 1/2"-diameter meatballs (makes about 28).

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.

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 475ml 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.

Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped basil and Parmesan.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.