Meatball, Zucchini and Chickpea Soup
Combining meatballs, zucchini, and chickpeas may seem unconventional, but this recipe proves it’s a match made in culinary heaven. With a focus on browning the meatballs and simmering the ingredients to perfection, this soup melds flavors and textures into a hearty, nourishing dish. Perfect for any season, it’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when prepared with care, can transform into a meal that’s both comforting and rich in flavor.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
40 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4.
Ingredients
- Ground meat (beef or turkey), 500g (1.1 lbs)
- Fresh zucchini, 2 medium-sized, sliced
- Chickpeas, 400g can (14 oz), rinsed and drained
- Tomatoes, 400g can (14 oz), diced
- Passata, 500ml (2 cups)
- Chicken or vegetable stock, 1 liter (4 cups)
- Water, 500ml (2 cups)
- Garlic, 2 cloves, minced
- Onion, 1 medium, finely chopped
- Breadcrumbs, 100g (1 cup)
- Fresh basil, 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Egg, 1 large
- Salt, 2 teaspoons (to taste)
- Pepper, 1 teaspoon (to taste)
- Olive oil, for frying
- Parsley or basil, for garnish
- Parmesan or Pecorino cheese, for serving (optional), 50g (1/2 cup grated)
Method
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, minced garlic, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, chopped basil, and the egg. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into small, evenly-sized balls.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then set aside.
- In a large pot, bring the passata, stock, and water to a boil. Reduce to a simmer.
- Add the meatballs to the pot. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add sliced zucchini and chickpeas. Season with the remaining salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve with grated cheese if desired.
This Meatball, Zucchini, and Chickpea Soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be elevated into a comforting and satisfying meal. With a balanced combination of flavors and textures, it’s a wholesome dish that’s sure to please any palate. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly day or a nutritious dish to share with the family, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Nutritional Information (Approx)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 1200mg