Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. The combination of fresh vegetables and hearty gnocchi makes this soup not only satisfying but also a wholesome choice for any occasion. The spicy sausage adds a kick that elevates this dish to comfort food status!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a depth of flavor that warms the soul.
• Hearty Texture: With tender gnocchi and a variety of vegetables, this soup offers a satisfying bite in every spoonful.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
• Wholesome Meal: Packed with nutrients from beans and greens, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Garlic press
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking soups evenly and allowing ample space for all the ingredients to mingle.
• Garlic press: Ensures you get maximum flavor from your garlic with minimal effort.
• Measuring spoons: Helps maintain accuracy in seasoning, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 Finishing Touches

• 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, then set them aside, 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, crumble in the spicy sausage. Brown for a few minutes before adding in leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Stir together.

Step 3: Season & Sauté

Add a pinch of salt and pepper along with the Italian seasoning. Sauté everything for a few minutes until the veggies become tender.

Step 4: Add Aromatics & Tomatoes

Stir in the garlic until fragrant. Then add the chopped tomatoes and navy beans; pour in the chicken stock/broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes or until veggies are tender. Turn off heat; stir in kale, parsley, and lemon juice. Taste to check if more salt or pepper is needed.

Step 6: Serve

Add a small amount of cooked gnocchi to a bowl. Ladle hot soup over it; drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a delightful experience. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread’s texture complements the broth beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with additional chopped parsley or basil for a fresh burst of flavor and color.

With a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top adds richness and depth to each bowl.

Alongside a Salad

• Serve with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To elevate your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Homemade Broth: For richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.

• Add More Greens: Incorporate other greens like spinach or Swiss chard for added nutrition and color.

• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables based on what you have on hand for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Italian vegetable soup enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread infused with garlic butter makes a perfect companion for sopping up the soup.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and flavorful side that complements the soup’s heartiness.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add an earthy flavor that works well alongside the soup.

4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting texture that pairs beautifully with broth-based dishes.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic choice, crispy grilled cheese sandwiches provide satisfying crunch and gooeyness.

6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring an elegant touch while enhancing the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Ignoring ingredient prep: Always wash and prepare your vegetables before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cook veggies just until tender to maintain their texture and nutrients. Keep an eye on them during the simmering process.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving; you may need extra salt or pepper for optimal flavor. Adjust as needed during the cooking process.
• Not using fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley enhance the overall flavor of your soup. Adding them at the end preserves their bright taste.
• Using the wrong broth: The type of broth significantly affects taste. Opt for a quality chicken stock or broth that complements the spices in your soup.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags to save space.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or chicken sausage if you prefer a lighter option while still keeping the spicy flavor.

How can I customize this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you like, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to enhance the soup’s variety and taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup holds up well in both refrigeration and freezing, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

What should I serve with Italian Vegetable Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only hearty and flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences by adding different vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Try it out today and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort!