Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, it brings warmth to any occasion. The vibrant vegetables harmonize beautifully with the spicy sausage and tender gnocchi, making this recipe a winner in every household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: The combination of vegetables and gnocchi makes this soup satisfying enough to serve as a main dish.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip this up in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein options for a personal touch.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously rich broth that will warm you from the inside out.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it an ideal choice for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving a perfect soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, allowing flavor development during cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts of vegetables, making prep easier and safer.

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 the Broth

• 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

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: Brown the Sausage

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

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add sliced leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery to the pot. Stir together well. Add a pinch of salt and pepper along with Italian seasoning. Sauté everything for a few minutes until the vegetables become tender.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the pressed garlic. Once aromatic (about 30 seconds), add in the chopped tomatoes along with navy beans. Pour in the chicken stock/broth and stir to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until all veggies are tender. Turn off heat then stir in kale, parsley, and squeeze lemon juice over top. Taste for additional salt or pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve

In bowls, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi. Ladle hot soup over it. Drizzle extra olive oil on top if desired along with parmesan cheese garnish before enjoying your delicious creation!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can elevate your meal experience. This hearty dish is not only flavorful but also versatile, allowing you to pair it with various sides and garnishes for a complete dining experience.

Garnish Options

• Fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley for freshness.
• Grated cheese: Top each bowl with shaved or grated parmesan for a savory finish.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• With crusty bread: Pair the soup with slices of fresh baguette or ciabatta. The bread is perfect for dipping.
• Over cooked grains: Serve the soup over cooked quinoa or rice for added texture and nutrition.
• In a bread bowl: For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. It’s both delicious and visually appealing.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To make this Italian vegetable soup truly stand out, consider these simple tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Adjust the amount of Italian seasoning based on your taste preference for a bolder flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables will provide more vibrant flavors compared to frozen alternatives.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of it and return it to the pot for a creamier texture.
• Add more spice: For an extra kick, include red pepper flakes or hot sauce while cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Complementing your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can enhance your meal. Here are some side dishes that work wonderfully together.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soup’s broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a refreshing side.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for an excellent appetizer.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables offer a hearty addition to your meal.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide both color and nutrition alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and add them at the right time to preserve their texture.
• Using Low-Quality Sausage: The flavor of your soup relies heavily on the sausage. Opt for high-quality spicy sausage for that rich taste.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning your soup properly can lead to blandness. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper levels accordingly.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness and depth. Always add fresh parsley or other herbs towards the end of cooking for maximum flavor impact.
• Ignoring Storage Tips: Improper storage can spoil your soup quickly. Make sure to cool it down before refrigerating or freezing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for 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 zip-top bags; it can last up to 3 months frozen.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-4 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option while still keeping that spicy flavor.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

You can omit the sausage entirely and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Add beans and more vegetables for protein and heartiness.

What vegetables work well in this recipe?

Besides the listed ingredients, you can add zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better when made a day ahead, as the flavors meld together beautifully overnight.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only hearty but also versatile. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. It’s perfect for meal prep or serving on chilly evenings. Give it a try and enjoy its rich flavors!