Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a warm and inviting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with vibrant vegetables and hearty gnocchi, it offers a comforting blend of flavors that will delight your taste buds. The rich broth combined with the spicy sausage makes this recipe not only satisfying but also a great way to gather family and friends around the table. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy family dinner, this soup is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage and fresh vegetables creates a rich, savory taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with vegetables like kale, carrots, and fennel, this soup is packed with vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Meal: This soup can be served as a starter or main dish, making it perfect for any meal of the day.
• Freezable: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are some must-have items for preparing this delicious Italian vegetable soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Garlic press
• Ladle
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows you to sauté ingredients properly and simmer the soup without spilling over.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even cooking.
• Garlic press: Saves time in mincing garlic, releasing its flavor quickly into your dish.

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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, washed, halved, and sliced thinly (white part only)
• 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

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

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

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil. Once hot:
1. Crumble in the spicy Italian sausage.
2. Brown for a few minutes until fully cooked.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add in the leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery to the pot. Stir together:
– Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
– Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning.
– Sauté all ingredients until the veggies become tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic & Tomatoes

Stir in the garlic until fragrant:
– Add the chopped tomatoes and navy beans.
– Pour in the chicken stock/broth; stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover your pot:
– Let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until all veggies are tender.
– Turn off the heat; stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and squeeze of lemon.
– Taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy this nourishing Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a delightful way to warm up any meal. This hearty soup can be complemented by various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make for a satisfying dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth. Choose a rustic sourdough or ciabatta loaf for the best texture.

Topped with Parmesan

• Adding shaved or grated parmesan cheese before serving elevates the umami flavor of the soup, creating a creamy finish that pairs beautifully with the spices.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil right before serving brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color, making it visually appealing.

With a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup, adding freshness to your meal.

Paired with Wine (Non-Alcoholic Option)

• For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, serve sparkling water or herbal iced tea alongside the soup to cleanse the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Perfecting your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can elevate your cooking skills. Here are some handy tips to ensure every bowl is delicious.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for better flavor. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste compared to canned or frozen options.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of spicy sausage or add more vegetables to balance out the heat.

• Simmer Longer: For enhanced flavors, let the soup simmer longer than 20 minutes; this allows all ingredients to meld together beautifully.

• Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers based on your preference or what you have on hand.

• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Pairing complementary side dishes enhances your meal experience with Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is ideal for scooping up this hearty soup while adding an aromatic touch.

2. Caprese Salad: A classic caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil brings a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices create a filling side that complements the flavors of your main dish.

4. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes can be pan-fried until golden brown, providing a crispy texture that pairs well with soup.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables add depth and flavor to your meal while also being nutritious.

6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft and cheesy biscuits are perfect for mopping up every last bit of broth from your bowl.

7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a healthy and protein-packed side that balances out the richness of the soup.

8. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil make an easy and flavorful appetizer that complements your main dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, small missteps can affect the overall flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient prep – Not washing or cutting vegetables properly can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your ingredients are prepped before starting.

• Overcooking the sausage – Cooking the sausage too long can make it tough. Sauté just until browned for a better texture.

• Skipping seasoning – Failing to season at various stages can make the soup bland. Season while cooking and adjust before serving for maximum flavor.

• Using low-quality broth – A poor broth can ruin your soup’s taste. Use homemade or quality chicken stock for deeper flavor.

• Adding kale too early – Adding kale too soon can make it mushy. Stir it in at the end to keep its vibrant color and texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in a covered oven-safe dish; heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through; add a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage that you might find helpful.

What can I substitute for spicy Italian sausage?

You can use crumbled turkey sausage or chicken sausage seasoned with red pepper flakes and herbs for a lighter option.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the sausage and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth, adding more beans or lentils for protein.

How do I customize my Italian vegetable soup?

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to enhance flavors and textures.

How long does it take to prepare Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

The total time is approximately 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I add pasta instead of gnocchi?

Yes, you can substitute gnocchi with small pasta shapes like ditalini or shells; adjust cooking times as needed based on pasta type.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only hearty but also versatile enough for various tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. It’s perfect as a cozy meal on chilly days—give this recipe a try!