Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with vibrant vegetables and a flavorful broth, it’s a great option for family dinners or meal prep. The addition of tender gnocchi makes this soup not only delicious but also filling, ensuring that every bowl warms you from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup includes gnocchi, making it a satisfying meal on its own.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a robust flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level to suit your preferences.
• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a warm meal ready in under an hour.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with vegetables and beans, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, you’ll need some essential tools that streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Provides ample space for all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, enhancing the overall texture of the soup.
• Garlic press: Quickly minces garlic for enhanced flavor 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 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
• 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: Prepare the Gnocchi

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

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

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

Step 3: Build Flavor

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

Step 4: Simmer

Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes or until veggies are tender. Turn off heat:
– Stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and lemon squeeze.
– Check for additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Add a small amount of cooked gnocchi to a bowl. Ladle hot soup over it:
– Drizzle with olive oil.
– Sprinkle parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy dinner or a hearty lunch, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

In a Bread Bowl

• Using fresh bread rolls, hollow out the center and fill them with the hot soup for a fun and edible serving option.

With a Side Salad

• Pair the soup with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with chopped parsley or basil to elevate the flavors and add a pop of color.

Accompanied by Cheese Toasts

• Serve slices of toasted bread topped with melted cheese for a crunchy side that complements the soup’s creaminess.

As an Appetizer

• Serve smaller portions in cups for a delightful appetizer at gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To make your Italian vegetable soup truly shine, consider these helpful tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible. They provide better flavor and nutrition compared to canned options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. This allows you to control the spice according to your taste.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances the depth of flavor as all ingredients meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra variety and nutrients.
• Add Gnocchi Last: If using gnocchi, add it toward the end of cooking to keep it tender and prevent it from becoming mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Complementing your Italian vegetable soup with tasty sides can turn your meal into an unforgettable experience. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is excellent for dipping into the flavorful broth.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds brightness alongside the rich soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional flavor and texture that complement the soup well.
4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese creates a comforting dish that pairs perfectly.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed bell peppers offer heartiness and can be made ahead of time.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad provides contrast in temperature and texture, making for a satisfying meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can be straightforward, but certain missteps can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your vegetables while sautéing can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper during cooking.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the veggies for too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm vegetables for the best texture.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth significantly impacts the soup’s flavor. Opt for a good-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for richer taste.
• Not letting it simmer: Rushing through the simmering stage may result in underdeveloped flavors. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 20 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Ignoring freshness: Using stale or wilted vegetables can diminish the soup’s quality. Always use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors and textures.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The soup will last up to 4 days when properly stored.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure you leave room for expansion.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage:

What is Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is a hearty, brothy dish filled with fresh veggies and flavorful sausage, making it a comforting meal.

Can I customize the vegetables in this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy or have on hand.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the spicy sausage and substitute it with more beans or lentils for protein.

How can I enhance the flavor of my soup?

Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only delicious but also offers great versatility. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or even add different proteins. It’s perfect as a cozy meal any day of the week, so give it a try!