Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey or chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, whole wheat bread crumbs, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

2. Form Meatballs: Using your hands, mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking and roll into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

3. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

4. Brown Meatballs: Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point. Remove the browned meatballs and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

5. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables have softened.

6. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Soup

7. Add Broth and Water: Pour in the 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 2 cups of water. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.

8. Return Meatballs: Once boiling, carefully add the browned meatballs back into the pot.

9. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow the meatballs to cook through and the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add the Pasta

10. Cook Pasta: Stir in the ditalini pasta or orzo. Cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

Step 6: Add Greens

11. Add Spinach/Swiss Chard: During the last few minutes of cooking (when the pasta is almost done), add the chopped spinach or Swiss chard. Stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

12. Season: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If using, drizzle in the lemon juice for a bright flavor.

Step 7: Serve

13. Dish Up: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor if desired.

14. Enjoy: Serve your Homemade Italian Wedding Soup with whole grain bread or a light side salad for a complete meal!

This method should give you a delicious, wholesome soup that you and your family can enjoy together!