Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of warmth, this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is just what you need! It’s a recipe that I hold dear, not only for its delightful flavors but also for the way it brings everyone together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this soup always manages to create smiles and warm hearts.

What makes this soup extra special is the combination of fresh vegetables and the kick of spicy sausage, all simmered to perfection. Plus, with the addition of gnocchi, it transforms into a hearty meal that even picky eaters will love. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delectable soup in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will enjoy the flavors; it’s perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with veggies and beans, it’s a healthy choice that fills you up without weighing you down.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

For the Soup

• 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
• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for spicy sausage, try using ground turkey or chicken instead!
• Add more greens: Feel free to toss in other leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard for added nutrition.
• Change up the beans: Kidney beans or black beans work beautifully as substitutes for navy beans.
• Spice it up: For an extra kick, toss in some red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

If preparing the gnocchi, follow the package instructions to cook them. This step ensures they are tender and ready to soak up all the wonderful flavors of your soup. Keep them warm while you make your broth!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, crumble in your spicy sausage. Brown it for a few minutes until it’s nice and golden. Then add leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Stir everything together! Adding a pinch of salt and pepper along with Italian seasoning helps enhance their flavors as they become tender.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Next up is garlic! Stir it in once your veggies are soft; you’ll know it’s ready when it’s aromatic. Then toss in those lovely chopped tomatoes along with navy beans. Pour in your chicken stock/broth—this is where all those flavors come together!

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Cover your pot and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows those wonderful veggie flavors to meld together while ensuring everything is perfectly tender. When it’s done simmering, stir in kale, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Don’t forget to taste—add more salt or pepper if needed!

Step 5: Serve It Up

To serve this delightful soup, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi to each bowl before ladling over the hot soup. A drizzle of olive oil on top adds richness; feel free to sprinkle on some parmesan cheese if you’d like!

Now grab a spoon and dig into this heartwarming bowl of Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage—enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Cooking this delicious soup is a breeze, especially with these handy tips that will ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture!

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh veggies not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color and nutrients to your soup. This makes it more appealing and healthy.
• Choose quality sausage: Opting for high-quality spicy sausage will give your soup a rich, savory depth. Look for brands that use natural spices without any fillers.
• Don’t rush the simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for the full 20 minutes helps meld all the flavors beautifully. This patience leads to a more cohesive taste experience.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste your soup after adding kale and lemon juice; adjusting seasoning at this stage allows you to fine-tune the flavors based on personal preference.
• Make it ahead of time: Soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Prepare it in advance for an easy meal later!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving this hearty soup can be as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ideas for presenting your Italian vegetable soup.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped basil or additional parsley can enhance freshness and elevate the visual appeal of your dish.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving adds richness and an extra layer of flavor.
• Crusty bread: Serve alongside toasted slices of rustic bread for dipping, creating a wonderful contrast between textures.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of this flavorful soup. The combination is simply divine!
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with seasonal greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the warmth of the soup beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables or a medley of root veggies add a lovely sweetness and earthiness that pairs perfectly with the spicy sausage.
• Polenta: Creamy polenta served alongside or under the soup makes for a hearty meal. It soaks up all those delicious broth flavors wonderfully!

Enjoy crafting this comforting bowl of Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, perfect for any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For best flavor retention, keep the gnocchi separate until ready to serve.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for quick thawing.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If desired, add a splash of broth or water to adjust consistency when reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage without gnocchi?

Absolutely! You can skip the gnocchi and still enjoy a flavorful and hearty soup. Just follow the rest of the recipe as directed.

How long does Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage last in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just remember to keep any added gnocchi separate!

Can I substitute other vegetables in Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Yes! Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans would all work beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing it in freezer-safe containers.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage! With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for warming your heart and soul. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!