Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a delightful blend of flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Packed with vibrant vegetables and a hint of heat from the sausage, it’s a comforting and hearty dish. Plus, the addition of tender gnocchi takes this soup to the next level, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously rich broth that warms the soul.
• Hearty Texture: Adding gnocchi gives this soup a satisfying bite while enhancing its overall heartiness.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, allowing for endless variations.
• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Meal: Bursting with vegetables and beans, this soup provides a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure that your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Ladle
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Garlic press

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: An essential tool for simmering the soup evenly without overcrowding.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving up generous portions of your delicious soup.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Garlic press: Ensures that garlic is finely minced for maximum flavor release.

Ingredients

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is deliciously rich and brothy, made extra hearty with a spoonful of tender gnocchi!

For the Gnocchi (Optional)

• 1 (16 ounce) package gnocchi

For the Soup Base

• 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

For the Broth

• 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

For Garnish

• 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

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi (if using)

If preparing the gnocchi, cook them according to the package instructions. Set them aside while keeping them warm.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Vegetables

Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil. Once hot:
1. Crumble in the spicy sausage and brown for a few minutes.
2. Add in leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery; stir together.
3. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Sauté everything until the veggies become tender.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the pressed garlic. Once it becomes aromatic:
1. Add the chopped tomatoes and navy beans.
2. Pour in chicken stock/broth; stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until all veggies are tender. Turn off the heat:
– Stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and lemon juice.
– Taste to see if additional salt or pepper is needed.

Step 5: Serve

In each bowl:
– Add a small amount of cooked gnocchi.
– Ladle some hot soup over it.
– Drizzle with olive oil; sprinkle with parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can be a delightful experience. This rich and hearty soup is perfect on its own, but you can enhance the meal with a few thoughtful accompaniments.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve with slices of fresh sourdough or a crusty baguette for dipping. The bread will soak up the delicious broth.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad topped with a lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness and adds freshness to the meal.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Offer shaved or grated parmesan cheese as an optional topping. It adds a savory note that elevates the flavors beautifully.

With Extra Spices

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, serve red pepper flakes on the side. Diners can sprinkle them over their soup for an extra kick.

With Extra Gnocchi

• Additional Gnocchi: Provide extra cooked gnocchi on the side for guests who want to add more heartiness to their bowl of soup.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To ensure your Italian vegetable soup is absolutely perfect, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Always taste and adjust your seasonings before serving. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the dish significantly.

• Use fresh vegetables: Opt for fresh, seasonal vegetables for better flavor and nutrition. They make a noticeable difference in this hearty dish.

• Simmer longer: If time allows, let the soup simmer longer than 20 minutes. This helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

• Add herbs at the end: Add fresh herbs like parsley just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Italian vegetable soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement this delicious recipe perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter is always a hit and pairs wonderfully with any soup.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic drizzle create a refreshing side that balances the richness of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables enhances the meal’s overall flavor while adding healthy elements.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a hearty addition that works well alongside the soup.

5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses offers variety and texture beside the warm bowl of soup.

6. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia topped with herbs pairs perfectly for dipping into soups, making it an ideal companion.

7. Crispy Polenta Fries: These crispy treats provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the broth of the soup.

8. Simple Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a comforting touch to your meal and goes hand-in-hand with any warm bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to chop and prepare all vegetables beforehand can slow down cooking. Take time to prep everything before starting.

• Skipping Seasoning: Forgetting to season the soup can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.

• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and cook just until tender for the best texture.

• Ignoring Broth Quality: Using low-quality broth can affect the soup’s overall flavor. Opt for a good-quality chicken stock for rich taste.

• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Add ingredients in stages for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Timeframe: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the soup fresh.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• • Timeframe: Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer the soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute spicy sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option while maintaining flavor.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply omit the sausage and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth; add more veggies or beans for protein.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on your preference.

How long does it take to cook?

The total time is around 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making this a quick meal option.

What can I serve with this soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasoning levels. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting bowl of warmth!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in a delightful bowl of Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage, a heartwarming dish that brings together vibrant vegetables and a kick of heat from the sausage. This nourishing soup is not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Enhanced with tender gnocchi, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Packed with fiber and vitamins, this nutritious soup will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Olive or avocado oil
• 2 links spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 leeks (white part only), sliced
• 1 fennel bulb, sliced
• 1 large parsnip, diced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 rib celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 (28 ounce) can whole tomatoes, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup chopped kale (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Brown the crumbled sausage for a few minutes.
2. Add leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery; season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant. Add chopped tomatoes and navy beans followed by chicken broth; stir well.
4. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes until all veggies are tender.
5. Stir in kale and lemon juice just before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg