This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. The rich broth and hearty ingredients create a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. With the added kick of spicy sausage and the option to include tender gnocchi, this soup stands out as a versatile meal suitable for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a flavor explosion in every bowl.
- Hearty Texture: Adding gnocchi makes this soup extra filling, turning it into a complete meal.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this soup comes together quickly.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a heartwarming experience.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and beans, this recipe is both nourishing and delicious.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Garlic press
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: Provides ample space for all ingredients to simmer together nicely.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even cooking.
- Garlic press: Makes it easy to incorporate fresh garlic into your dish without the hassle of chopping.
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
- 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 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:
1. Cook them according to package instructions.
2. Set aside while keeping them warm.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
- Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
- Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of oil into the pot.
- Once hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage.
- Brown for a few minutes until cooked through.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
- Add leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery to the pot.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sauté everything for several minutes until veggies are tender.
Step 4: Add Garlic & Tomatoes
- Stir in the pressed garlic until aromatic.
- Add chopped tomatoes and navy beans to the pot.
- Pour in chicken stock/broth and stir well.
Step 5: Simmer & Finish
- Cover the pot and simmer for about 20 minutes until veggies are soft.
- Turn off heat; stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and lemon juice.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Serve
Add a small amount of cooked gnocchi to each bowl.
Ladle hot soup over it; drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle parmesan if desired. Enjoy!
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 thoughtful pairings. Here are some creative ways to serve this hearty dish.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each bowl with extra chopped parsley or basil for a burst of fresh flavor that complements the soup’s savory notes.
Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil
- A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can elevate the flavors and add a touch of richness.
Serve with Cheese
- Shaved or grated parmesan cheese on top not only adds flavor but also gives a creamy texture that enhances the overall dish.
Accompany with Salad
- A simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
Pair with Wine
- A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese, pairs beautifully and enhances the Italian experience.
How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
To make your Italian vegetable soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, making it more vibrant and delicious.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes along with the sausage for an extra kick.
- Cook Gnocchi Separately: Cooking gnocchi separately helps maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming too soft in the soup.
- Let it Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer deepens the flavors; aim for at least 30 minutes if time permits.
- Experiment with Greens: While kale is great, feel free to try other greens like spinach or Swiss chard for varied flavors and textures.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge; it tastes even better the next day!
Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
Pairing side dishes with your Italian vegetable soup can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the soup well and adds an aromatic touch to your meal.
- Caprese Salad: This simple salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta makes for a light appetizer that balances out the rich flavors.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for a delightful spread.
- Polenta Cakes: Crispy polenta cakes provide a unique twist that pairs well with the robust flavors of Italian dishes.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition while complementing your soup’s earthy tones.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your vegetables while sautéing can lead to bland soup. Always add salt and pepper early in the cooking process for better flavor absorption.
- Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook your veggies too long, they may become mushy. Aim for tenderness but retain a bit of crunch by keeping an eye on cooking times.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality tomatoes or broth can diminish the taste of your soup. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and homemade or low-sodium chicken stock for a richer flavor.
- Ignoring texture: Adding gnocchi too early can make it overly soft. Cook gnocchi separately and add it just before serving to maintain its texture.
- Not adjusting flavors: After cooking, many forget to taste and adjust their soup’s flavors. Always check for additional salt, pepper, or acidity before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Italian vegetable soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Make sure to cool the soup completely before sealing the container.
Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.
Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer a portion of soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of sausage in Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage?
You can certainly substitute different sausages based on your preference. Sweet Italian sausage or turkey sausage works well if you prefer a milder flavor.
How do I make this Italian vegetable soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and replace chicken stock with vegetable broth. You could also add more vegetables or plant-based proteins like lentils.
What other vegetables can I add to Italian vegetable soup?
Feel free to customize by adding zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. This recipe is versatile, so include any seasonal vegetables you enjoy!
How long does it take to prepare Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal option.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This Italian vegetable soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance and store it as directed above.
Final Thoughts
Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have at home or personal preferences. This healthy meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep! Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!
Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage
Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a warm and hearty dish that combines vibrant vegetables with the bold flavors of spicy sausage, creating a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. The rich, aromatic broth is filled with tender gnocchi, fresh greens, and nutritious ingredients, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. Each bowl offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds while providing essential nutrients. Whether served on its own or accompanied by crusty bread, this versatile soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x
Ingredients
- 2 links spicy Italian sausage
- 2 leeks
- 1 fennel bulb
- 1 large parsnip
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 rib celery
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 (28 ounce) can whole tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can navy beans
- 6 cups chicken stock
- Optional: 1 (16 ounce) package gnocchi
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and brown the crumbled spicy sausage.
- Add sliced leeks, fennel, diced parsnip, carrot, and celery; season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until tender.
- Stir in pressed garlic, chopped tomatoes, navy beans, and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for about 20 minutes until vegetables are soft.
- Before serving, stir in kale and parsley; adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot over cooked gnocchi if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Use fresh vegetables for enhanced flavor. Adjust spice levels by adding crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Cook gnocchi separately to prevent mushiness; add just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.
