Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is just what you need. It’s one of those recipes that feels like home, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The rich broth, paired with tender gnocchi and vibrant vegetables, makes each spoonful comforting and satisfying. I love how this soup not only fills your belly but also warms your heart—it’s bound to become a favorite!
This recipe is so versatile that you can whip it up any time you crave something hearty and flavorful. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in those veggies! Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making this soup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the rich flavors and hearty texture—perfect for kids and adults alike!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of spices and fresh veggies creates a broth that’s bursting with flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of wholesome ingredients to make this delightful soup! Each one adds its own unique flavor and health benefits. 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
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have in your kitchen. Here are some fun variations:
- Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or even meatless sausage for a lighter option.
- Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or Swiss chard for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Switch up the beans: Chickpeas or black beans can provide a different texture and flavor profile.
- Spice it up: If you like more heat, add some red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
If you’re preparing gnocchi for this dish, cook them according to the package instructions first. This keeps them warm while you make the soup. They add a delightful chewiness that pairs perfectly with the brothy goodness!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of oil. Once it’s hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage. Brown it for a few minutes until it gets that lovely golden color. Next, add in your leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Stir everything together! Season with a pinch of salt and pepper along with Italian seasoning; sauté until those veggies soften beautifully.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Now it’s time to stir in the garlic! Cook it until it becomes aromatic—this step really enhances the overall flavor of your soup. Add in the chopped tomatoes along with navy beans; these will contribute sweetness and heartiness. Pour in your chicken stock or broth next; give everything a good stir to combine.
Step 4: Simmer Away
Cover your pot and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes until all those wonderful veggies are tender. Once they are cooked through, turn off the heat and fold in chopped kale along with parsley and that lovely squeeze of lemon juice! Taste your soup now—does it need any extra salt or pepper?
Step 5: Serve It Up!
To serve, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi into bowls before ladling hot soup over them. Drizzle with some extra olive oil if you’d like and sprinkle on Parmesan cheese for an added touch of richness. Now sit back and enjoy every warm spoonful!
This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is truly nourishing—in every sense of the word!
Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
Creating a comforting bowl of Italian vegetable soup is all about technique and a little creativity—here are some tips to help you make the best version possible!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also provide better nutrition and texture. Look for seasonal produce for the best taste.
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Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with one link of spicy sausage or use a mild variety instead. You can always add more spice later if desired!
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Let it simmer longer: While 20 minutes is sufficient, allowing your soup to simmer for 30-40 minutes can deepen the flavors and make the vegetables even more tender.
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Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix in other herbs like thyme or oregano to customize the flavor profile. Fresh herbs can add brightness and freshness to the dish.
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Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
Serving this hearty soup can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this warm dish for yourself or guests.
Garnishes
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Fresh basil or parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of color and enhances the herbaceous notes of the soup.
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Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who love an extra kick, offering red pepper flakes on the side allows everyone to customize their heat level.
Side Dishes
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Crusty bread: A loaf of rustic bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, soaking up all that delicious broth.
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Mixed green salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
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Garlic knots: These soft, buttery bites seasoned with garlic and herbs pair beautifully with soup, adding an indulgent touch.
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Cheesy polenta: Creamy polenta made with vegetable stock offers a comforting side that complements the flavors of your Italian vegetable soup perfectly.
Enjoy your cooking adventure! Your kitchen will be filled with warmth and wonderful aromas as you prepare this delightful dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is perfect for meal prep! Whip up a big batch at the start of your week, and you’ll have tasty, convenient meals ready to go.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For best flavor, keep gnocchi separate until reheating.
Freezing
- Cool the soup entirely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Leave some headspace in the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
- For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!
Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the spicy sausage and replace it with your favorite plant-based protein or additional beans for a hearty dish.
How long does Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can last 3-4 days in the fridge.
What can I serve with Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I add other vegetables to my Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach based on your preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only comforting but also packed full of vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! It’s a wonderful dish to gather around and share, whether it’s just you or you’re feeding a crowd. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—you won’t be disappointed!
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, nourishing, and bursting with flavor, this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this hearty soup features a delightful blend of vibrant vegetables, tender gnocchi, and a rich broth that warms both the body and soul. Ideal for meal prep, it’s easy to whip up and even more enjoyable as leftovers. Plus, with its customizable ingredients, you can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences or use what you have on hand. Dive into a bowl of this savory Italian-inspired dish and let the comforting flavors transport you to your favorite kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 package gnocchi (optional)
- Olive or avocado oil
- 2 links spicy Italian sausage (or turkey sausage)
- Leeks
- Fennel bulb
- Parsnip
- Carrot
- Celery
- Garlic
- Canned tomatoes
- Navy beans
- Chicken stock/broth
- Kale
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; set aside.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat oil and sauté crumbled sausage until browned. Add leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, celery, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant. Add tomatoes and navy beans; pour in chicken stock and mix well.
- Cover the pot and simmer for about 20 minutes until vegetables are tender. Stir in kale, parsley, and lemon juice before serving.
- Serve hot over cooked gnocchi with optional garnishes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
