Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for any occasion. Packed with vibrant vegetables and flavorful sausage, this soup warms the soul and delights the taste buds. The addition of tender gnocchi makes it extra filling, turning it from a simple appetizer into a satisfying main course. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: This soup combines the savory taste of spicy sausage with fresh vegetables for a delightful blend.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap out vegetables based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with beans and veggies, this soup provides essential nutrients while keeping it hearty.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering large quantities of soup without splashing.
• Sharp knife: Ensures you can chop vegetables quickly and safely.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

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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
• 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 preparing the gnocchi, cook them according to the package instructions. Once done, set them aside keeping them warm.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

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

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until all veggies are tender.
– Turn off heat and stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and squeeze of lemon juice.
– Check if additional salt or pepper is needed.

Step 5: 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. Enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: A slice of warm sourdough pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a delicious crunch and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle shaved or grated parmesan on top for an extra layer of creaminess and savory flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella can add a gooey texture, making each bite even more satisfying.

Fresh Herbs

• Basil Leaves: Garnish with fresh basil for added aroma and a hint of freshness.
• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the dish but also adds a pop of color.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers a nice contrast to the warmth of the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: Lightly dressed mixed greens can cleanse the palate between each hearty spoonful.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Perfecting this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage involves attention to detail during preparation. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality spices and herbs to enhance flavor depth. Fresh herbs will provide better results than dried ones.
• Texture Variety: Incorporate different vegetables for varied textures. Try adding zucchini or bell peppers for a unique twist.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it before adding back in. This creates creaminess without needing dairy.
• Garnish Smartly: Finish with toppings like olive oil or crushed red pepper flakes for an added kick and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Italian vegetable soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic make an irresistible addition that complements the soup’s flavors.
2. Caprese Salad: A light and refreshing salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil; perfect for contrasting the rich soup.
3. Antipasto Platter: Include olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses for a delightful appetizer that prepares your palate for the soup.
4. Pesto Pasta: Tossed in homemade pesto, this pasta dish brings aromatic herbs that beautifully resonate with the soup’s ingredients.
5. Ratatouille: This vegetable medley offers additional flavors and nutrients while remaining light enough to not overshadow the main dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides a nutritious counterpart that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Season seasonal vegetables and roast them until caramelized; their sweetness enhances the savory notes in your soup.
8. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with flavorful soups like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can be easy, but certain missteps can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth can result in a bland flavor. Always take a few minutes to cook the vegetables first.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth will affect the taste of your soup. Opt for a good-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for the best flavor.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the veggies too long can turn them mushy. Keep an eye on simmering time to maintain some texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning at the end may lead to a bland soup. Always check and modify salt and pepper levels before serving.
• Ignoring garnishes: Skipping out on garnishes like parsley or cheese can make your dish less appealing. Add fresh herbs or toppings for added flavor and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label them with date and contents.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20-25 minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage vegetarian?

You can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

How can I customize my Italian Vegetable Soup?

Feel free to add any favorite vegetables or beans! Options like zucchini, spinach, or chickpeas work well in this recipe.

What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

Spicy turkey sausage is an excellent alternative that adds flavor without using pork products.

How do I prevent my gnocchi from getting mushy?

Cook gnocchi separately and add them just before serving. This keeps them tender without overcooking in the soup.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, making it a perfect dish for any season. Give it a try, and experiment with different vegetables or proteins!