Stracciatella
A comforting Italian-inspired egg drop soup with spinach, cheese, and herbs, ideal for a quick, hearty appetizer or light meal for all seasons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add spinach to chicken broth and heat to defrost the spinach, cooking it in the broth.
- Beat the eggs lightly in a separate bowl. Add breadcrumbs, thyme, and grated cheese to the eggs and beat together to form a thick mixture.
- Drizzle the egg mixture into the hot broth without stirring, creating egg ribbons.
- Simmer the soup for three minutes. Gently separate the cooked eggs with a fork before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture. If you want to make it heartier, you can include cooked chicken or tofu. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also enhance the dish. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Stracciatella with a sprinkle of additional grated cheese on top for added flavor. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad pairs nicely, creating a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Chicken Linguini for a satisfying dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the eggs to become tough. You can add a splash of broth to loosen the soup if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stracciatella contains roughly 1896 calories, with 43g protein, 376g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (184% of the Daily Value), iron (157% of the Daily Value), and calcium (112% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1755mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just add about 8 cups of chopped fresh spinach to the broth and cook until wilted. It will add a vibrant taste and color to your Stracciatella.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Parmesan cheese is a classic choice for this dish, adding a nice depth of flavor. However, you can also use Pecorino Romano or a mild cheddar for a different taste. Just ensure it's grated for even distribution in the soup.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat. This will maintain the dish's integrity while making it suitable for vegetarians. You could also enhance the flavor with additional vegetables like carrots or celery.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).