Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich broth and a medley of fresh vegetables, it brings warmth to your table. The addition of tender gnocchi makes it even more satisfying, while the spicy sausage adds a flavorful kick. Whether you are hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this soup will impress and delight everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: This soup combines the savory taste of spicy sausage with vibrant vegetables, creating a delightful harmony.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutritious vegetables and lean protein, this soup is both filling and good for you.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This Italian vegetable soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Allows for even cooking and enough space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Garlic press: Efficiently crushes garlic, releasing maximum flavor into the soup.

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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 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 (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

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi (Optional)

If preparing the gnocchi:
1. Cook them according to the package instructions.
2. Once done, set them aside to keep 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 Italian sausage.
4. Brown for a few minutes until cooked through.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

1. Add in leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery to the pot.
2. Stir together well; season with a pinch of salt and pepper plus the Italian seasoning.
3. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes until veggies are tender.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

1. Stir in the garlic; once aromatic add chopped tomatoes and navy beans.
2. Pour in chicken stock/broth; stir to combine well.

Step 5: Simmer

1. Cover the pot; simmer for about 20 minutes until vegetables are soft.
2. Turn off heat; stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and squeeze of lemon juice.
3. Taste; adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. In a bowl, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi.
2. Ladle hot soup over it; drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle parmesan if desired.
3. Enjoy your hearty bowl of Italian vegetable soup!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Garnish Ideas

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle shaved or grated parmesan on top for a creamy, salty finish.
• Fresh Herbs: Add chopped parsley or basil for a burst of fresh flavor and color.

Accompaniment Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of rustic bread for dipping into the broth.
• Salad: Pair with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the meal.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can enhance the flavor profile of the soup.

Additional Serving Options

• Lemon Wedges: Offer wedges for guests to squeeze over their soup for an extra citrus kick.
• Chili Flakes: Provide chili flakes on the side for those who enjoy an added spiciness.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Perfecting your Italian vegetable soup requires attention to detail and a few cooking tips. These suggestions will help you achieve the best results every time you make this delicious dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables contribute better flavor and texture than frozen or canned options.
• Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper throughout cooking, tasting as you go to ensure balanced seasoning.
• Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer gently for optimal flavor development and tenderness in vegetables.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately: If using gnocchi, cook them separately to prevent them from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the savory flavors of the soup beautifully.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh caprese salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil enhances the meal’s freshness.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Serve roasted stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice for an added protein boost.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables provides additional texture and nutrients alongside the soup.
5. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil, bruschetta adds a refreshing crunch.
6. Cheesy Risotto: A creamy risotto can serve as a comforting side dish that pairs well with the rich broth of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping ingredient preparation: Always wash and chop your vegetables beforehand. This ensures even cooking and a more flavorful dish.

• Overcooking the vegetables: Keep an eye on your cooking time. Overcooked veggies can lose their texture and flavor, so aim for tender but not mushy.

• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning as you cook can lead to bland soup. Remember to season in layers throughout the cooking process.

• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your soup. Choose a high-quality chicken stock for the best flavor, or make your own if possible.

• Ignoring the garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil adds brightness to the soup. Don’t skip this step for added flavor and visual appeal.

• Not letting it simmer long enough: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld all the flavors together. Don’t rush this step for a richer taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure you leave space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.

• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different vegetables in my Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

How spicy is this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

The spice level depends on the sausage you choose; look for mild or hot varieties based on your preference.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, substitute spicy sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

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

You can blend a portion of the soup or add cooked lentils for extra thickness without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only flavorful but also versatile and customizable. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have at home or what’s in season. Try this warming dish today and enjoy its hearty goodness!