Name: Summer Pesto Mini Meatball Soup: A Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh basil; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup pine nuts; 2 cloves garlic cloves; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 pound lean ground chicken or turkey; 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons pesto; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium shallot; 4 cups chicken stock or broth; 1 cup tiny cut pasta; 1/4 cup fresh basil; 1/4 cup shaved parmesan

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Summer Pesto Mini Meatball Soup is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. Enjoy a soothing bowl of this quick and flavorful delight perfect for warm evenings. The combination of fresh ingredients and a rich pesto flavor makes this soup not only comforting but also refreshing. So, let’s dive into this recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Summer Pesto Mini Meatball

This Summer Pesto Mini Meatball Soup is packed with flavor and has many benefits: it’s quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. With lean protein from ground chicken or turkey, it’s a healthier option that still feels indulgent. The fresh basil pesto provides a vibrant flavor, elevating this dish beyond the ordinary. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for a wider range of diets. You’ll also appreciate how versatile this recipe is; it can be served as an appetizer or as a main meal. Lastly, with only 30 minutes of total cooking time, it’s perfect for those last-minute dinner plans!

Summer Pesto Mini Meatball Soup: A Flavorful Delight - Summer Pesto Mini Meatball - main visual representation

Ingredients for Summer Pesto Mini Meatball

Gather these items:

2 cups fresh basil (provides a vibrant, aromatic foundation for your soup.)
1/2 cup parmesan cheese (adds a nutty depth that’s simply irresistible.)
1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted for a crunchy texture that elevates the dish.)
2 cloves garlic cloves (infuses your pesto with a warm, fragrant essence.)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (just a pinch adds a gentle kick!)
1 teaspoon salt (essential for enhancing all the flavors.)
1 teaspoon pepper (essential for enhancing all the flavors.)
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (brings everything together while adding richness.)
1 pound lean ground chicken or turkey (a healthier protein option.)
1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (help bind the meatballs.)
2 tablespoons pesto (boosts the flavor of the meatballs.)
1/4 cup parmesan cheese (extra cheesy goodness.)
2 tablespoons olive oil (used for sautéing.)
1 medium shallot (offers a sweet onion flavor.)
4 cups chicken stock or broth (this is the heart of your soup!)
1 cup tiny cut pasta (such as ditalini or annellini.)
1/4 cup fresh basil (for freshness.)
1/4 cup shaved parmesan (elevating the dining experience.)

How to Make Summer Pesto Mini Meatball Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Pesto: In your food processor, combine the basil, parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until small pieces remain, then blend while slowly adding the olive oil until fully combined. Store any leftovers in the fridge.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine the lean ground chicken or turkey with the seasoned breadcrumbs, parmesan, pesto, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until just combined, then lovingly form the mixture into small meatballs.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs: Heat a large stock pot over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Carefully place the meatballs in a single layer, browning them on all sides for about 8 to 10 minutes. Once golden, remove them from the pan and set on a plate.
Step 4: Sauté the Shallot: In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil. Stir in the diced shallot with a pinch of salt, cooking until translucent—about 5 minutes. Reintroduce the meatballs to the pot along with the chicken broth.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta: Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the tiny cut pasta. Cook uncovered, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente—approximately 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then fold in 1 or 2 tablespoons of the pesto for added flavor.
Step 6: Serve: Ladle your delicious soup into bowls and add more pesto on each serving as desired. Finish with a sprinkle of shaved parmesan and a handful of fresh basil for a burst of flavor—and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Summer Pesto Mini Meatball

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly made pesto for the best flavor.
Ensure your meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning the meatballs; work in batches if necessary.
Always taste your broth before serving; adjust seasoning as needed.
For a lower-carb version, serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles instead of pasta. This method also aligns with healthy mini meatball recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Summer Pesto Mini Meatball

This Summer Pesto Mini Meatball Soup is delicious on its own but can also be served with:

Crusty bread for dipping.
A side salad for a complete meal.
As a flavorful appetizer at your next gathering, making it an ideal summer appetizer meatball.

How to Store and Reheat Summer Pesto Mini Meatball

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. This dish is great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick summer pesto meatball dish any day of the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Pesto Mini Meatball

What’s the secret to perfect Summer Pesto Mini Meatball?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors in the pesto and ensuring your meatballs are cooked just right. Use fresh ingredients, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings to your taste for a flavorful pesto-infused meatball recipe.

Can I make Summer Pesto Mini Meatball ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook them the day you plan to serve the soup for the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Summer Pesto Mini Meatball?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your meat mixture is not overworked, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Also, always brown them on medium heat for even cooking.

Variations of Summer Pesto Mini Meatball You Can Try

If you’re looking for a twist, consider these variations:

Substituting ground beef for turkey for a richer flavor.
Using different herbs in your pesto, like cilantro or parsley, for a unique taste.
Experimenting with low-carb summer meatball ideas by adding cauliflower rice to the mixture.
Trying baked mini meatballs with pesto instead of frying for a healthier option.