Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a comforting dish that warms the soul. Packed with vibrant vegetables and a touch of heat from the sausage, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends. The addition of gnocchi gives it a hearty twist, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deep, satisfying taste.
• Hearty texture: With tender gnocchi and a variety of vegetables, this soup offers a delightful mouthfeel.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as an appetizer or as a main dish paired with crusty bread.
• Quick preparation: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
• Healthy ingredients: Loaded with nutrients from fresh vegetables and beans, it’s both delicious and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This allows for even cooking and provides ample space for all your ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Garlic press: Using a garlic press extracts maximum flavor from garlic cloves, enhancing the soup’s aroma.

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, washed, halved, and sliced thinly (white part only)
• 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 Liquid Components

• 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 the Fresh Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped kale
• 1 tablespoon chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley
• Squeeze of lemon (about 1 teaspoon)

Optional Garnish

• Shaved or grated parmesan cheese

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi (if using)

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

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil. Once hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage. Brown for a few minutes until cooked through.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add in the leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Stir everything together. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper along with the Italian seasoning. Sauté until the veggies become tender.

Step 4: Add Garlic & Tomatoes

Stir in the garlic. Once aromatic, add the chopped tomatoes and navy beans. Pour in the chicken stock/broth and stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until all veggies are tender. Turn off the heat then stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve

In bowls, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi then ladle hot soup over it. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese if desired before enjoying your meal!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can be a delightful experience. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its taste.

Pairing with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: A slice of freshly baked sourdough or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making each bite more enjoyable.

Adding Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Oregano: Sprinkling fresh basil or oregano on top of your soup before serving brightens the flavors and adds a fresh aroma.
• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s freshness.

Creamy Elements

• Parmesan Cheese: Adding shaved or grated parmesan cheese provides a rich, savory finish to the soup.
• Crème Fraîche: A dollop of crème fraîche can add creaminess and a slight tang that complements the spicy sausage beautifully.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To ensure your Italian vegetable soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables contribute better flavor and nutrition compared to canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder taste, use less spicy sausage or add sweet Italian sausage.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld the flavors together, creating a richer broth.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving to adjust seasoning like salt and pepper as needed.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Italian vegetable soup enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic make an irresistible side that complements the soup perfectly.
2. Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a light contrast to the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables bring additional flavors and textures that harmonize well with the soup.
4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese provides a comforting addition alongside your bowl of soup.
5. Pesto Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad dressed in pesto adds a delightful twist and balances out the warmth of the soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables serve as a hearty side dish that complements each spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the prep: Not preparing all ingredients beforehand can lead to overcooking some components while chopping others. Always have everything ready to go.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender bite by monitoring cooking times closely.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices before serving.
• Neglecting the broth quality: Using low-quality broth can affect the soup’s flavor. Opt for a good-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for best results.
• Forgetting to taste as you go: Don’t wait until the end to taste your soup. Sampling throughout the process allows you to adjust flavors along the way.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it lasts for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage:

Can I use different types of sausage?

You can definitely use other types of sausage such as chicken or turkey sausage for a healthier option.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, if you choose gluten-free gnocchi or omit it altogether, this soup is gluten-free.

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

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on your preference or availability.

What herbs pair well with this soup?

In addition to Italian seasoning, fresh thyme or basil enhances the flavor beautifully.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Try it today for a warm, hearty meal that everyone will love!

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Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x

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Description

Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings warmth to any table. This hearty soup combines vibrant, fresh vegetables with the savory kick of spicy sausage, offering a perfect balance of flavors. Tender gnocchi adds a satisfying texture, making it an ideal meal for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends. Ready in just 45 minutes, this nutritious soup is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable to your taste preferences. Pair it with crusty bread for a fulfilling dining experience.

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Ingredients

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• Olive or avocado oil
• 2 links spicy turkey sausage (crumbled)
• 2 leeks (sliced)
• 1 fennel bulb (sliced)
• 1 large parsnip (diced)
• 1 medium carrot (diced)
• 1 rib celery (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (pressed)
• 1 can whole tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 can navy beans (drained)
• 6 cups chicken stock/broth
• 1 cup chopped kale
• Fresh parsley and lemon juice for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, drizzle oil and brown the crumbled turkey sausage.
2. Add leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery; sauté until tender.
3. Stir in garlic, then add tomatoes and navy beans.
4. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer for about 20 minutes until veggies are soft.
5. Stir in kale and parsley; adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot over cooked gnocchi with a drizzle of olive oil and garnish with optional cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 45mg