Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. Its hearty broth is enriched with seasonal vegetables and a touch of spice, making it a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it as a stand-alone meal or pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage and fresh vegetables creates a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with veggies like kale, parsnips, and tomatoes, this soup is both healthy and filling.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or as an appetizer; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this soup on the table in no time.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or substitute the sausage for another protein option.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on this flavorful journey, gather your cooking tools. The right equipment will make your preparation smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Garlic press: Ensures that you get the most flavor out of your garlic without the need for chopping.

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

• 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: Prepare the Gnocchi

If preparing the gnocchi:
1. Cook them according to the package instructions.
2. Set them aside while keeping them warm.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

1. Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
2. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil.
3. Once hot, crumble in the spicy sausage and brown for a few minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

1. Add in leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery; stir together.
2. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Sauté everything for a few minutes until veggies are tender.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Stir in garlic until aromatic.
2. Add chopped tomatoes and navy beans.
3. Pour in chicken stock/broth; stir to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

1. Cover pot; let simmer for about 20 minutes until veggies are tender.
2. Turn off heat; stir in kale, parsley, and squeeze of lemon.
3. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. In bowls, add some cooked gnocchi.
2. Ladle hot soup over the gnocchi.
3. Drizzle with olive oil; top with parmesan if desired.
4. Enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a comforting dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual gathering, this soup can elevate your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup alongside some crusty bread for dipping. A rustic loaf or sourdough complements the broth beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or basil. This adds a burst of flavor and freshness to the hearty soup.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Pair the soup with a light salad for a balanced meal. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works wonderfully.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Finish each bowl with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. This enhances the flavors and adds richness to each serving.

With Parmesan Cheese

• Offer shaved or grated parmesan on the side. This allows everyone to add their desired amount for that savory touch.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To make your Italian vegetable soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of spicy sausage based on your heat preference. You can also add red pepper flakes for extra kick.

• Include Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporating seasonal produce adds variety and makes the soup even healthier.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld all the flavors together, resulting in a richer taste.

• Customize Gnocchi: If using gnocchi, try different types like sweet potato gnocchi for added flavor and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving sides alongside your Italian vegetable soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.

2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables provide a filling side that pairs well.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add an earthy flavor that complements the soup’s ingredients beautifully.

5. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can provide variety and richness alongside your meal.

6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad dressed in vinaigrette brings a nice balance to the hearty soup without overwhelming it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your vegetables can lead to bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook the veggies too long, they may become mushy. Aim for a tender texture while retaining some bite.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness and flavor. Don’t skip the parsley or lemon juice—they elevate the dish!
• Using low-quality broth: A flavorful broth is key to a great soup. Opt for high-quality chicken stock for the best taste.
• Not preparing gnocchi correctly: If you’re adding gnocchi, follow package instructions closely—overcooked gnocchi can become mushy and detract from the soup’s texture.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place your soup in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of spicy sausage?

You can substitute with turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.

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

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. You can also adjust the spice level by using mild sausage or adding red pepper flakes.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I ensure my gnocchi doesn’t get mushy?

Cook gnocchi according to package instructions and add them just before serving to maintain their texture.

What side dishes pair well with Italian Vegetable Soup?

Consider serving crusty bread or a fresh salad alongside this hearty soup for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand, making it an ideal dish year-round. Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!