Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings or any gathering. The rich broth, combined with the warmth of the spicy sausage and the tender gnocchi, makes it a delightful addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a deeply satisfying broth.
• Hearty Texture: Gnocchi adds a wonderful chewiness that elevates the soup from simple to substantial.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the veggies based on what you have on hand or prefer.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly and allowing for proper simmering.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring even cooking.
• Sharp knife: Aids in quick and efficient chopping of vegetables, saving time during prep.

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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 Soup Base

• 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

For Added Flavor

• 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

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: Prepare the Gnocchi (If Using)

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

Step 2: Cook 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 Italian 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 and pepper along with the Italian seasoning.
4. Sauté everything until the veggies become tender.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

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

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes:
– Check until veggies are tender.
– Turn off heat; stir in kale, parsley, and lemon juice.
– Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

To serve:
1. Place a small amount of cooked gnocchi into bowls.
2. Ladle some hot soup over it.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of 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 experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. The rich flavors of the soup pair beautifully with different sides and garnishes, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Fresh basil or thyme can elevate the flavor profile, adding a burst of freshness to each serving.

Include Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. A rustic sourdough or baguette works wonderfully.

Top with Cheese

• A sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese adds creaminess and enhances the savory notes of the soup.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving adds richness and depth to the overall taste.

Pair with a Green Salad

• A simple side salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the hearty soup well.

Serve with Gnocchi on the Side

• If you prefer not to mix gnocchi into the soup, serve it on the side as a fun addition that guests can add as they like.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Perfecting your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage involves attention to detail in both preparation and ingredient selection. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also maintain their nutrients, contributing to overall flavor and health benefits.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you enjoy more heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or using extra spicy sausage for an added kick.

• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together for a richer taste.

• Experiment with Greens: While kale is delicious, try using spinach or Swiss chard for different textures and flavors.

• Balance Flavors: Taste your soup before serving; if it’s too acidic from tomatoes, add a pinch of sugar to balance it out.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Italian vegetable soup pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy bread infused with garlic butter makes for an irresistible pairing that soaks up the broth perfectly.

2. Caprese Salad: This classic salad made of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty soup.

3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers adds variety and enhances the meal’s Mediterranean essence.

4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese provides a comforting side that’s great for dipping into the soup.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables enhance flavors while keeping things healthy and vibrant.

6. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia drizzled with olive oil is perfect for mopping up every last bit of delicious broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping the sauté step – This can result in bland flavors. Always sauté your vegetables and sausage to build a rich base.
• Not seasoning properly – Under-seasoning can lead to a dull taste. Make sure to add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking veggies – Overcooked vegetables lose their texture and nutrients. Keep an eye on them; they should be tender but still vibrant.
• Ignoring the broth quality – Using low-quality broth can affect the soup’s flavor. Opt for a good-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for the best results.
• Not adjusting consistency – If your soup is too thick, it may not be enjoyable. Add more broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely, for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop – Simmer over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage:

What can I substitute for spicy sausage?

You can use chicken sausage or turkey sausage if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based sausage alternatives.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make this soup spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for extra heat. Adjust to your spice preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well and can be prepared ahead of time. Just follow storage instructions for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only hearty and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy nights or meal prep!