1 serving (244 grams) contains 171 calories, 11.9 grams of protein, 6.6 grams of fat, and 15.9 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
170.8 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 6.6 g | 8% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g | 12% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 41.5 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 949.2 mg | 41% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15.9 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% | |
| Sugars | 3.7 g | ||
| protein | 11.9 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 9.8 mcg | 49% | |
| Calcium | 90.3 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 1.7 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 319.6 mg | 6% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Italian wedding soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a traditional Italian-American dish known for its hearty and comforting profile. Contrary to its name, it is not associated with weddings but is derived from the term 'minestra maritata,' meaning 'married soup,' referring to the 'marriage' or blending of flavors from the ingredients. The soup typically includes small meatballs, broth, leafy greens such as spinach or escarole, and pasta or grains like acini di pepe. It is a nutrient-dense dish that combines protein from meatballs, fiber, and vitamins from the greens, as well as carbohydrates from the pasta, offering a well-rounded macronutrient profile. Standard servings provide protein, iron, vitamin K, and a moderate calorie count, making it a versatile option for various dietary needs.
Health Benefits
- Rich in protein from the meatballs, which aid in muscle repair and maintenance.
- High in vitamin K from leafy greens like spinach, which supports bone health and proper blood clotting.
- Contains iron from meat and greens, which is essential for oxygen transport in the blood.
- Low-fat broth provides hydration and is easy to digest, suitable for light meals.
- Includes dietary fiber from the greens, promoting healthy digestion.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve flavor, and add broth if needed as pasta may absorb liquid during storage.
Common Questions About Italian wedding soup Nutrition
Is Italian Wedding Soup high in protein?
Italian Wedding Soup is typically a moderate protein option due to the meatballs and sometimes chicken broth. On average, a 1-cup serving contains roughly 8-12 grams of protein, depending on the recipe. This makes it a good option for those looking to incorporate more protein into their diet.
Can I eat Italian Wedding Soup on a keto diet?
Traditional Italian Wedding Soup is not strictly keto-friendly due to ingredients like pasta or breadcrumbs in meatballs, which can add carbohydrates. However, you can modify the recipe by omitting pasta and using almond flour or pork rinds for the meatballs to make it suitable for a keto diet.
Are there any health benefits or concerns with Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian Wedding Soup can be a nutritious choice with its combination of greens, broth, and protein. Spinach or escarole in the soup are rich in vitamins A and K. However, watch for sodium levels, as canned versions or restaurant-prepared soups may contain high amounts of salt, which can be a concern for those managing blood pressure.
What is a recommended serving size for Italian Wedding Soup?
A typical serving size for Italian Wedding Soup is 1 cup, which generally contains 150-250 calories depending on the recipe. Pairing it with a side salad or a light piece of bread can make for a complete meal without excessive calorie intake.
How does Italian Wedding Soup compare to other soups like Chicken Noodle or Minestrone?
Italian Wedding Soup is generally higher in protein than Minestrone due to the meatballs, while Chicken Noodle offers similar protein amounts but may have higher carbs from noodles. Minestrone provides a broader range of vegetables but lacks the added protein. Italian Wedding Soup's greens and meat make it a well-rounded option for those looking for balanced nutrition.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Italian wedding soup DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of AgricultureCovers general dietary recommendations and guidance on consuming nutrient-dense soups like Italian Wedding Soup.
- The Nutritional Value and Benefits of Homemade SoupsJournal of NutritionA peer-reviewed article analyzing health benefits of soups that combine vegetables, lean proteins, and broths, as found in Italian Wedding Soup.
- Health Benefits of Leafy Greens and Lean Proteins in SoupsHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthDiscusses the benefits of nutrient-rich soups made with leafy greens, proteins, and whole grains, relevant to Italian Wedding Soup ingredients.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
