Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Bursting with vibrant vegetables and a kick of spice, this soup offers a delightful blend of flavors. Plus, the addition of gnocchi makes it even more filling and enjoyable. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously rich and savory taste.
• Hearty and Filling: With the inclusion of gnocchi and beans, this soup is nourishing and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand for a custom twist.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal planning.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delightful Italian vegetable soup, you’ll need some essential tools to 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: Ideal for cooking large portions and ensuring even heat distribution while simmering.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps chop vegetables quickly and safely.
• Garlic press: Easily crushes garlic for maximum flavor infusion into the soup.

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 Garnish

• 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 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. When hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage. Brown for a few minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

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

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the garlic until aromatic. Next, add the chopped tomatoes along with navy beans. Pour in the chicken stock/broth; stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the pot and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the veggies are tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Turn off the heat. Stir in the chopped kale, flat-leaf parsley, and squeeze of lemon juice. Taste to see if additional salt or pepper is needed.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can elevate the meal and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to complement this hearty dish.

Add a Fresh Side Salad

• A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette enhances the flavors of the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of warm, crusty bread or a baguette for dipping into the rich broth. This adds a satisfying texture to your meal.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl of soup with chopped basil or additional parsley. This not only adds color but also boosts freshness in flavor.

Finish with Cheese

• A sprinkle of shaved or grated parmesan cheese on top creates a creamy finish that pairs well with the spicy sausage.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers make a great side. Their smoky flavor complements the soup beautifully.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To ensure your Italian vegetable soup reaches its full potential, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will provide maximum flavor and nutrition, enhancing the overall taste of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to fit your preference for heat and flavor intensity.
• Simmer Longer: For deeper flavors, allow the soup to simmer longer than 20 minutes. This helps meld the ingredients together beautifully.
• Experiment with Greens: While kale is great, try spinach or Swiss chard for different textures and flavors in your soup.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Italian vegetable soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent choices to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter makes for a perfect companion to soak up the soup’s broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts add extra nutrients and flavor to your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with lemon juice and herbs adds protein and balances out the richness of the soup.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese provides a comforting side that pairs well with Italian flavors.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices offer a filling option that complements the soup nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, it’s easy to overlook a few essential steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables and sausage enhances their flavors. Always take the time to brown them properly before adding liquids.
• Not using enough seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland soup. Be generous with salt, pepper, and spices like Italian seasoning to elevate the taste.
• Ignoring ingredient sizes: Uniformly sized vegetables cook more evenly. Cut your ingredients into similar sizes for consistent cooking.
• Overcooking the greens: Adding kale too early can make it mushy. Toss it in during the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant texture.
• Rushing the simmering process: Allowing the soup to simmer gives flavors time to meld. Don’t rush this step; let it bubble away for at least 20 minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep your soup fresh.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot. Cover loosely to prevent splatters.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious soup recipe.

Can I use other types of sausage in Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Yes, feel free to substitute other types of sausage based on your preference. Just ensure they are flavorful!

How can I customize my Italian Vegetable Soup?

You can add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand, such as zucchini or bell peppers. Experiment with different herbs as well!

What can I serve with Italian Vegetable Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only hearty and rich but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. Give it a try and enjoy a warming bowl that’s perfect for any occasion!