Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a cozy delight perfect for any occasion. Packed with vibrant vegetables and bold flavors, this dish warms the soul while offering a nutritious meal. It’s great for family dinners, meal prep, or when you want something hearty yet comforting. Plus, the addition of gnocchi makes it even more satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage and fresh vegetables creates a deep, savory taste that will excite your palate.
• Hearty and Filling: With tender gnocchi added to the mix, this soup is both filling and satisfying, making it ideal for chilly days.
• Quick to Prepare: In just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious homemade soup ready to serve.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from various vegetables and protein from beans, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of ingredients while providing enough room for simmering.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps in sautéing ingredients evenly.

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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 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

Seasonings

• Salt
• Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press

For the Broth

• 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: Cook the Gnocchi (Optional)

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

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
2. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil.
3. Once hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage and brown for a few minutes.
4. Add in leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery; stir together well.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning; sauté until veggies are tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Cover the pot and simmer for about 20 minutes until veggies are tender.
2. Turn off heat; stir in kale, parsley, and lemon juice.
3. Taste to adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Serve

1. Add a small amount of cooked gnocchi to each bowl.
2. Ladle hot soup over the gnocchi.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle parmesan on top if desired—enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious ideas to enjoy this hearty dish.

Classic Bowl

• Serve the soup hot in a deep bowl, allowing the rich flavors and aromas to shine. Top with shaved or grated parmesan cheese for added creaminess.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread, like sourdough or ciabatta, perfect for dipping into the broth. Toast it lightly for an extra crunch.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• For a heartier meal, serve the soup over cooked rice or quinoa. This adds texture and helps soak up the flavorful broth.

As a Starter

• Offer small cups of the soup as an appetizer before a main course. This makes for a delightful introduction to any meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance the presentation by garnishing each bowl with additional chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley or fresh basil. This adds color and freshness.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To take your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage from good to great, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor profile and add vibrant colors to your soup.
• Customize spices: Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less Italian seasoning and black pepper according to your preference.
• Simmer longer for depth: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors, making it even more delicious.
• Add protein variations: If desired, substitute the spicy sausage with ground turkey or beef for a different flavor while keeping it hearty.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables: Use whichever vegetables are in season for added freshness and variety in your soup.
• Store properly: Leftovers taste even better! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready for another serving.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Complement your Italian vegetable soup with these fantastic side dishes that pair well and elevate your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic favorite that adds crispy texture and rich garlic flavor, perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Roasted bell peppers filled with rice and veggies offer a satisfying side that aligns well with the flavors of the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add sweetness and depth to your meal.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese creates a comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with the spicy broth.
6. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad made with olives, tomatoes, and mozzarella gives a nice balance of temperature and texture alongside hot soup.
7. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic brings a burst of freshness that complements the soup’s flavors.
8. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous infused with herbs can absorb some of the broth while adding another layer of flavor to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping prep work: Always prepare your ingredients before cooking. This helps everything cook evenly and saves time during the process.
• Overcooking vegetables: Keep an eye on your vegetables while sautéing. Cook them until they are tender but still vibrant; overcooking can lead to mushy veggies.
• Ignoring seasoning: Season at every stage of cooking. Adding salt and pepper throughout enhances flavor rather than just at the end.
• Not using fresh herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate your soup’s flavor. If possible, use fresh parsley instead of dried for a brighter taste.
• Neglecting texture: Incorporate a variety of textures in your soup. The addition of gnocchi adds heartiness, while beans provide creaminess; don’t skip these components.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag; it can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until hot.
• Microwave: Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until simmering, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some FAQs regarding Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage:

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can substitute spicy sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version that still packs plenty of flavor.

How can I customize this Italian vegetable soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach based on what you have on hand or prefer.

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

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a light pasta dish for a complete meal.

Can I use another type of broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter option or want to keep it vegetarian.

Final Thoughts

Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Try this comforting recipe today and enjoy a warm bowl full of flavor!