Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth to any occasion. Packed with vibrant vegetables and delicious spices, it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. The addition of tender gnocchi makes it even more satisfying, creating a meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: The combination of vegetables, spicy sausage, and gnocchi creates a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this soup can be on the table in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients results in a deeply flavorful broth that will keep you coming back for more.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with veggies and lean protein, this soup is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, gather your kitchen tools ahead of time. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Garlic press
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking the entire batch evenly while allowing room for all the ingredients to meld together.
• Garlic press: Makes it easy to incorporate fresh garlic into your recipe without the hassle of chopping.
• Knife and cutting board: Crucial for efficiently chopping vegetables to ensure even cooking throughout.

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

• 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

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 cooked, set them aside while keeping them warm.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil.
1. Once hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage.
2. Brown for a few minutes until fully cooked.
3. Add in leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery; stir together.
4. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté everything for a few minutes until the vegetables become tender.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Other Ingredients

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

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until all vegetables are tender.
Once done:
1. Turn off heat.
2. Stir in chopped kale, flat-leaf parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
3. Taste to adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

In serving bowls:
1. Add a small amount of cooked gnocchi.
2. Ladle hot soup over them.
3. Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired and sprinkle with parmesan cheese before enjoying!

Servings: Serves 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 449 calories (with about 1/3 cup of cooked gnocchi)

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 main course or an appetizer, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Classic Bowl

• Serve the soup hot in a large bowl, ensuring everyone gets a generous portion of veggies and sausage for a hearty meal.

With Gnocchi

• Add cooked gnocchi directly to the soup or serve it on the side for guests to customize their bowls. The gnocchi provides an extra layer of texture.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly shaved or grated parmesan cheese on top of each serving. This adds a rich flavor that complements the soup’s ingredients perfectly.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Enhance the soup’s flavors by drizzling a little extra virgin olive oil over each bowl before serving. This adds richness and depth to the dish.

Accompanied by Fresh Bread

• Serve the soup alongside slices of crusty bread for dipping. A good bread choice is sourdough or ciabatta, which pairs well with the broth.

Garnished with Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness. This not only looks appealing but also enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To make your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage even more delicious, consider these tips that will enhance its taste and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for maximum flavor. Fresh produce can make a significant difference in taste compared to canned or frozen options.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you enjoy heat, add more spicy Italian sausage or include red pepper flakes. For milder flavors, use less sausage or choose a different variety.

• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer melds the flavors together beautifully. A simmering time of 30-40 minutes can deepen the taste profile.

• Make It Ahead: Prepare your soup a day in advance; flavors develop more intensely when stored overnight in the fridge. Just reheat before serving!

• Experiment with Greens: Try adding different greens like spinach or Swiss chard instead of kale for variation. Each green brings its own unique flavor and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Pair your Italian vegetable soup with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal that satisfies all appetites.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth while adding wonderful flavor to your meal.

2. Caprese Salad
   This fresh salad made from tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and drizzled balsamic vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

3. Mixed Green Salad
   A light mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup and add crunch to your meal.

4. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice and vegetables complement the flavors of the soup while providing extra nutrition.

5. Cheesy Flatbread
   Warm cheesy flatbread offers delightful texture and flavor; it’s great for soaking up every last drop of that savory broth.

6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and earthiness to your meal; they are perfect alongside any hearty soup like this one.

7. Risotto Cakes
   Crispy risotto cakes serve as an excellent side, providing both comfort and satisfaction next to your flavorful soup.

8. Bruschetta
   Topped with tomatoes and herbs, bruschetta adds freshness and crunch that pairs beautifully with each spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.

• Overcooking vegetables: If you overcook the vegetables, they can become mushy. Cook them just until tender for a nice bite.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can drastically reduce flavor. Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for the best results.

• Ignoring the broth quality: The base of your soup is crucial. Use a high-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for richer flavor.

• Cooking gnocchi in the soup: Adding gnocchi directly into the soup too early can make them overly soft. Cook them separately and add them just before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in airtight containers.
• It will keep well for about 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 can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot throughout, which usually takes about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of sausage?

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

Is this Italian Vegetable Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and tastes even better after a day or two in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.

How can I make this Italian Vegetable Soup vegetarian?

You can omit the sausage entirely or replace it with plant-based sausage alternatives. Also, use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What are some good sides to serve with this soup?

Pairing your Italian Vegetable Soup with crusty bread or a light salad makes a complete meal that’s satisfying and nutritious.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to get creative by adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is not only hearty but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or protein sources based on your preference. Enjoy this comforting dish as part of your family meals or cozy nights in!