Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a comforting and robust dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. The combination of vibrant vegetables and flavorful sausage creates a rich broth that warms the soul. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve at family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. The addition of gnocchi makes this soup extra hearty, ensuring that every spoonful is satisfying and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh vegetables creates a deep, savory taste.
• Hearty Texture: Adding gnocchi makes this soup filling, ideal for a complete meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, this recipe is quick to make.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, it suits any occasion.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vitamins from fresh vegetables, it’s a healthy choice.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this wonderful Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Garlic press
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking large quantities of soup evenly without spilling.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for even cooking of vegetables, enhancing texture.
• Garlic press: Saves time and ensures the garlic is evenly distributed throughout 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 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 Flavor Enhancements

• 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

For the Broth

• 6 cups chicken stock/broth

For Finishing Touches

• 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

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

Step 2: Sauté 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 for several minutes until the veggies become tender.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the garlic; once it becomes aromatic:
1. Add the chopped tomatoes and navy beans to the pot.
2. Pour in the chicken stock/broth; stir to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until all veggies are tender. Afterward:
1. Turn off the heat.
2. Stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and squeeze in lemon juice.
3. Check for seasoning; adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

In each bowl:
1. Add a small amount of cooked gnocchi.
2. Ladle some hot soup over it.
3. Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired; sprinkle parmesan cheese on top before enjoying!

Servings: Serves 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 449 calories (with about 1/3 cup of cooked gnocchi)

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can be a delightful experience. This rich and hearty soup is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Here are some suggestions to elevate your serving game.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest adds brightness that complements the dish beautifully.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread enhances the flavors and offers a satisfying crunch.

Add Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Finish each bowl with shaved parmesan cheese, adding a savory kick.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can provide a creamy texture when added just before serving.

Serve with Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: The bold flavors of Caesar salad complement the soup nicely.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Perfecting your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips for an outstanding result.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Sauté Thoroughly: Take time to sauté your vegetables until tender; this builds a richer flavor profile.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving, adjusting salt and pepper as needed for balance.
• Add Creaminess: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of plant-based cream right before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Pairing sides with your Italian vegetable soup can elevate the meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make for delicious dipping.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil adds freshness.
3. Caprese Skewers: Skewers of cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella provide a refreshing bite.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with grains or beans create a filling side dish.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional flavors and textures to the table.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers protein while being wholesome.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid:

• Using the wrong vegetables: Not all vegetables work well in this soup. Stick to the suggested ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• Overcooking the sausage: Cook the sausage just enough to brown it. Overcooking can lead to dryness and toughness.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the dish’s flavor. Don’t omit parsley or Italian seasoning; they are essential.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: A shorter cooking time may result in crunchy vegetables. Simmer until everything is tender for optimal taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store leftover soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the soup fresh.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• • Duration: Freeze the soup for up to 3 months for best quality.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.

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 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Italian Vegetable Soup unique?

This Italian vegetable soup features spicy sausage that adds depth and warmth, complemented by hearty vegetables and tender gnocchi.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the spicy sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it entirely while adding more beans or lentils for protein.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To increase spiciness, add red pepper flakes during cooking. For less heat, use mild sausage or reduce the amount of added spices.

Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! You can substitute navy beans with cannellini or chickpeas based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only rich in flavor but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep!