Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and rich flavors, making it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Its hearty nature, enhanced by tender gnocchi, ensures that every bowl is satisfying. This soup stands out not only for its taste but also for its versatility, allowing you to enjoy it as a main dish or a comforting side to your favorite sandwich.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this soup can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a rich broth that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have at home.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup is not just delicious; it’s also healthy and filling.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal planning.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Garlic press
• Measuring spoons
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Soup Pot: A spacious pot allows the ingredients to cook evenly and provides enough room for stirring.
• Garlic Press: This tool helps release the garlic’s oils and flavors efficiently for a more aromatic broth.

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 Flavoring

• 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 Garnishing

• 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:
1. Cook them according to the package instructions.
2. Set them aside while keeping warm.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

1. Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
2. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil.
3. Once hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage.
4. Brown for a few minutes until nicely cooked.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

1. Add sliced leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery to the pot.
2. Stir together well.
3. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper along with Italian seasoning.
4. Sauté everything until the veggies become tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Aromatics

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

Step 5: Simmer

1. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until all veggies are tender.
2. Turn off the heat; stir in kale, parsley, and squeeze of lemon juice.
3. Check seasoning; add salt or pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. In each bowl, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi.
2. Ladle some hot soup over it.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle parmesan if desired before enjoying!

This satisfying dish serves six people and is ready in about 45 minutes—perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments.

Pair it with Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth. Consider sourdough or ciabatta for added flavor.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like basil or extra parsley to enhance the soup’s aroma and freshness.

Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top adds richness and a lovely finish to the dish.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A refreshing green salad complements the soup’s flavors and provides a nice contrast in texture. Dress it simply with olive oil and vinegar.

Enjoy with Cheese

• Offering shaved or grated parmesan cheese on the side allows guests to customize their bowls according to their taste preferences.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Perfecting your Italian vegetable soup is all about attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your soup shines every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables significantly enhance flavor. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or using spicier sausage.
• Balance Flavors: Taste and adjust seasoning as you cook, ensuring that salt, pepper, and acidity from lemon are balanced.
• Experiment with Greens: While kale is delicious, try other greens like spinach or Swiss chard for variety in texture and taste.
• 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 enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy toast spread with garlic butter adds a savory touch that complements the soup’s flavors.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side that balances the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provide additional nutrients and flavors that harmonize well.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices create a satisfying side that pairs nicely with the broth.
5. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta formed into cakes and grilled until crispy adds a delightful texture contrast.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses makes for an enticing starter before diving into the soup.
7. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed with veggies and dressing offers a contrasting temperature alongside the warm soup.
8. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese provides comfort food vibes that make for a cozy meal together with the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can be simple and rewarding, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not seasoning properly: Always taste your soup as it cooks. A pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can elevate flavors. Adjust seasoning before serving for the best taste.

• Overcooking vegetables: Cook veggies just until tender. Overcooking can lead to mushy textures. Keep an eye on cooking times to maintain a satisfying bite.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing aromatics like leeks and garlic enhances their flavors significantly. Don’t rush this step—allow time for the ingredients to develop their full taste.

• Forgetting the acid: A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens up the soup’s flavors. Add it just before serving for a fresh finish that balances richness.

• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key component of your soup’s flavor. Use a good-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Let it cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Simmer over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage:

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute mild sausage or turkey sausage if you prefer less spice. Adjust seasonings accordingly.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Absolutely! You can omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a hearty vegetarian alternative.

How do I make this soup spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing vegetables for an extra kick!

How can I customize my Italian Vegetable Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also include different beans for added protein.

What goes well with Italian Vegetable Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only hearty and flavorful but also incredibly versatile! Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of sausages. It’s perfect for meal prep and is sure to warm you up on chilly days—give it a try!