Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty dish that warms both the heart and the belly, this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that I turn to on busy weeknights when I want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The combination of fresh vegetables and spicy sausage creates a delightful flavor that is perfect for family gatherings or even a simple dinner for one. Plus, the addition of gnocchi makes it feel like a comforting hug in a bowl!

Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just need a quick meal after a long day, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of any level.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone from kids to grandparents will enjoy the rich flavors and hearty textures.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Packed with nutrients: A variety of vegetables and beans make this dish not only delicious but also nutritious!
• Flavorful and satisfying: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients provides an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Italian vegetable soup, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one contributes to that rich flavor we all love. Here’s what you’ll gather before getting started:

For the Soup

• 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
• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: If spicy sausage isn’t your thing, try using ground turkey or even plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more greens: Spinach or Swiss chard can be great substitutes for kale if you want extra leafy goodness.
• Mix up the veggies: Don’t hesitate to add any seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

If you’re using gnocchi in your soup, start by cooking them according to the package instructions. This keeps them tender while soaking up all those wonderful flavors later on. Once cooked, set them aside while we prepare the soup!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil. Once hot, crumble in your spicy sausage. Browning it adds depth of flavor! After a few minutes, toss in your leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Season with salt and pepper along with that Italian seasoning. Sauté everything until the veggies are tender; this should take just a few minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic & Tomatoes

Next up is the garlic! Stir it in until it becomes aromatic—this step really enhances the overall flavor profile. Then add in your chopped tomatoes and navy beans followed by pouring in that chicken stock/broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer & Incorporate Greens

Cover your pot and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes until those veggies are nice and tender. This allows all those flavors to meld together perfectly! When it’s done simmering, turn off the heat. Now stir in your chopped kale and parsley along with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Give it another taste—add more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

To serve up this delightful soup, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi into each bowl before ladling over some hot soup. Drizzle with extra olive oil if you’d like and sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top for an indulgent finish. Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Creating a delicious Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some pro tips to help you make this dish truly shine:

• Sauté until golden: Make sure to brown your sausage well before adding the vegetables. This step caramelizes the meat, infusing the soup with rich, savory flavors.

• Use fresh herbs: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Fresh parsley not only adds vibrant flavor but also brightens the overall dish with its freshness.

• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the soup to simmer for a full 20 minutes helps meld all those wonderful flavors together. It’s worth the wait!

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste your soup before adding any additional salt or pepper. Each ingredient contributes its own flavor, and it’s best to adjust seasoning based on the overall taste.

• Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or whatever you have on hand! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach could be delightful additions.

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving this hearty Italian vegetable soup can be as much about presentation as it is about taste. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A few torn leaves of fresh basil add a lovely aromatic touch that complements the soup wonderfully.
• Chili flakes: For those who crave extra heat, a sprinkle of chili flakes on top will give your soup a spicy kick.
• A drizzle of balsamic glaze: This sweet tangy finish can enhance the depth of flavors in your soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A loaf of rustic Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the broth and adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
• Garlic knots: These soft, buttery bites bring an irresistible aroma and flavor that pairs beautifully with your meal.
• Cheesy polenta: Creamy polenta topped with a bit of olive oil can serve as a comforting side that complements the heartiness of the soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delicious creation! Enjoy every warm spoonful of this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is perfect for meal prep! Its flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious after a day in the fridge. Plus, you can easily store leftovers or make a big batch for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep gnocchi separate if you plan to store leftovers, as they can become mushy.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When freezing, omit any garnishes like cheese or parsley for best results.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• If using the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this comforting recipe!

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

Absolutely! This soup is versatile. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer. Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers would be excellent additions.

How spicy is the Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

The spiciness comes primarily from the sausage. If you prefer a mild flavor, you can choose a less spicy sausage or reduce the amount used.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth. You can add extra beans or lentils for protein and heartiness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage a try! It’s not only simple and satisfying but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, it’s sure to warm your heart and fill your stomach. Enjoy making this recipe and feel free to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turned out!