Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a delightful dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup boasts rich flavors and a hearty texture thanks to the addition of tender gnocchi. Each spoonful is a comforting blend of vibrant vegetables and savory sausage that makes it a standout in any meal lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients, making it a satisfying option for any mealtime.
• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the vegetables or swap out the spicy sausage for other meats or even plant-based alternatives based on your preference.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in one pot, reducing cleanup time and letting you focus on enjoying your meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent choice for batch cooking or meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand can make preparation simpler and more efficient. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all ingredients together, ensuring even heat distribution for better flavor.
• Chef’s knife: A good-quality knife helps you chop vegetables quickly and safely, which speeds up the preparation process.

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 Flavor and Texture

• 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, cook them according to the package instructions. Once done, 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, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage. Brown for a few minutes before adding in leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Stir everything together. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until veggies become tender.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in the garlic. Once fragrant, add chopped tomatoes and navy beans. Pour in chicken stock/broth and stir to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until veggies are tender. Turn off heat; stir in kale, parsley, and lemon juice. Taste for seasoning; add salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

In bowls, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi. Ladle hot soup over gnocchi. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your hearty bowl of Italian vegetable soup!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is all about enhancing its rich flavors and textures. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways to make your meal even more delightful.

Classic Pairings

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the broth.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread adds a perfect crunch and complements the soup’s savory taste.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil or extra chopped parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy an extra kick, add a pinch of chili flakes as a garnish.

Accompaniments

• Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly with olive oil balances the meal.
• Cheese Plate: Offer a selection of cheeses, such as aged cheddar or gouda, to enjoy alongside the soup.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Creating the perfect Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible. They enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices based on your preference for heat and flavor.
• Simmer Longer: If time allows, let the soup simmer longer. This deepens the flavors and makes the vegetables tender.
• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so slowly over low heat to prevent vegetables from becoming mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Pairing your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction; it’s light yet flavorful.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil; it adds a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned with herbs provide extra nutrients and flavor.
4. Quinoa Salad: A colorful quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers protein and texture that pairs well.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and spices make for a hearty side that complements the soup’s brothiness.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese creates a comforting side dish that absorbs flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, many can overlook key details. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your vegetables while cooking can lead to bland soup. Always add salt and pepper early in the process to enhance flavors.
• Overcooking the veggies: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by sautéing until just softened.
• Not using fresh herbs: Dried herbs lack the vibrancy of fresh ones. Substitute dried herbs with fresh for a brighter flavor, adding them at the end of cooking.
• Ignoring broth quality: Using low-quality broth can affect the soup’s overall taste. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best results.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Skipping garnishes can make your dish less appealing. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate presentation and flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot; typically 5-7 minutes depending on portion size.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot; this usually takes about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the spicy sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain flavor.

How can I customize the vegetables?

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preference or what’s available. Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans work well too!

What should I serve with Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

This soup pairs nicely with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To alter spiciness, choose milder sausage or reduce the amount used. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only hearty but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on seasonal vegetables or personal taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl that warms both body and soul!