Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the soul, this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is just what you need! It’s the kind of recipe that makes the kitchen smell heavenly and fills your home with a comforting vibe. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this soup not only nourishes but also brings everyone together around the table. Plus, it’s loaded with wholesome ingredients, making it a favorite in my household.
This recipe is special because it combines vibrant vegetables with the zesty kick of spicy sausage, resulting in a deliciously rich and brothy delight. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something hearty, this soup is sure to hit the spot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Italian vegetable soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner.
- Family-Friendly: Packed with veggies and flavorful sausage, it’s a hit among both kids and adults!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for busy days.
- Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients are simple and can be easily swapped based on what you have on hand.
- Comforting Flavor: Each bowl is filled with warmth from spices and fresh produce, making every spoonful delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our ingredients! This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is made using simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Soup
- 1 (16 ounce) package gnocchi (optional)
- Olive or avocado oil
- 2 links spicy Italian sausage, casings removed and crumbled
- 2 leeks (white part only), washed, halved, and sliced thinly
- 1 fennel bulb, quartered, core removed, and sliced thinly
- 1 large parsnip, peeled and diced
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 rib celery, diced
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
- 1 (28 ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained of juice and roughly chopped into large chunks
- 1 (15 ounce) can navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 cups chicken stock/broth
- 1 cup chopped kale
- 1 tablespoon chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley
- Squeeze of lemon (about 1 teaspoon)
- Shaved or grated parmesan cheese as garnish, if desired
Variations
One of the best parts about this Italian vegetable soup is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have at home. Here are some tasty variations:
- Swap the protein: Try using turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or Swiss chard for an extra boost of nutrition.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage entirely and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
- Change up the beans: Black beans or chickpeas work wonderfully as alternatives to navy beans.
How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
If you’re including gnocchi in your soup (and I highly recommend it!), begin by cooking them according to the package instructions. Keeping them warm while you prepare the rest of the dish ensures they stay tender when served.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, crumble in your spicy Italian sausage. Let it brown for a few minutes—this step adds so much flavor! Next, add leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper along with Italian seasoning. Sauté everything together until those lovely veggies soften.
Step 3: Add Garlic & Tomatoes
Stir in your pressed garlic; once it becomes aromatic—oh my goodness!—add in your chopped tomatoes along with navy beans. Then pour in your chicken stock/broth. This combination creates a rich base for your soup that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Cover your pot and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow all those flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring your veggies are tender yet still vibrant. When it’s done simmering, turn off the heat before stirring in kale, parsley, and that lovely squeeze of lemon juice to brighten everything up!
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
To serve up this heartwarming soup, place some gnocchi into bowls before ladling hot soup over them. Drizzle with a touch more olive oil if desired and sprinkle on some parmesan cheese for an extra treat! Enjoy every warm spoonful—it’s pure comfort food at its finest!
Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
Creating a comforting bowl of Italian vegetable soup is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your soup. Seasonal produce will give you the best taste and texture.
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Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, opt for sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy. This way, everyone can enjoy it without overwhelming their palate.
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Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the vegetables and sausage. This step builds a rich base by allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making your soup even more delicious.
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Customize Your Greens: While kale adds great texture and nutrition, feel free to substitute with spinach or Swiss chard based on what you have available. Each leafy green brings its own unique flavor!
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Make It Ahead: Soups often taste better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate, and reheat before serving for an even more flavorful experience!
How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
Serving your Italian vegetable soup can be as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful ideas that will elevate your dining experience.
Garnishes
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or additional parsley brightens up each bowl and adds freshness.
- Croutons: Adding crispy homemade or store-bought croutons provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender vegetables.
- Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving enhances the rich flavors and gives a lovely sheen to your soup.
Side Dishes
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup. It adds a deliciously savory element that complements the broth beautifully.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with grated cheese makes for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with this robust soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal veggies adds extra nutrition and depth to your meal while bringing out their natural sweetness through caramelization.
Now you’re ready to whip up this delightful Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, serve it up like a pro, and enjoy every comforting spoonful! Happy cooking!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is perfect for meal prep! It stores beautifully, allowing you to enjoy a hearty, nutritious dish throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Keep the gnocchi separate if possible, as they may absorb too much broth when stored together.
Freezing
- Let the soup cool before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Label each container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, consume within 1-2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
- Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen it up.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!
Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth. You can add extra beans or lentils for a protein boost.
How do I store Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for future meals.
What vegetables work best in Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?
Feel free to get creative! Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans would all be great additions that complement the other flavors beautifully.
Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage ahead of time?
Yes! This soup is ideal for meal prep and can be made ahead. It also tastes even better after sitting as the flavors meld together.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this heartwarming Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that brings together fresh vegetables and zesty flavors. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly night or prepping for busy days ahead, this soup is sure to delight. So grab your ingredients, enjoy the cooking process, and savor every spoonful. Happy cooking!
Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Warm up with a delightful bowl of Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage! This heartwarming dish combines a medley of vibrant vegetables and flavorful spicy sausage for a nourishing experience that the whole family will love. Perfect for a cozy dinner on busy weeknights or for meal prepping, this soup is simple to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Each spoonful is a comforting embrace, rich in flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something hearty, this Italian-inspired soup is sure to hit the spot!
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Spicy Italian sausage (or turkey/chicken sausage)
- Leeks
- Fennel bulb
- Parsnip
- Carrot
- Celery
- Garlic
- Whole tomatoes
- Navy beans
- Chicken stock/broth
- Kale
- Lemon juice
Instructions
- If using gnocchi, cook according to package instructions and keep warm.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, drizzle olive oil and add crumbled sausage. Brown for a few minutes.
- Add sliced leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery; season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until vegetables soften.
- Stir in garlic, then add chopped tomatoes and navy beans. Pour in chicken stock/broth.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until flavors meld. Stir in kale and lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
