Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul and brings everyone together, this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is just what you need. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my kitchen, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet satisfying. The combination of vibrant vegetables and zesty sausage makes it a delightful dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family or served at gatherings with friends.

What I love most about this soup is its versatility—whether it’s chilly outside or you’re just in the mood for something comforting, this recipe hits the spot every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This soup comes together in about 45 minutes, making it an easy weeknight option.
• Hearty and filling: With the addition of gnocchi and spicy sausage, each bowl is packed with flavor and satisfaction.
• Nutrient-rich: Loaded with vegetables like kale, carrots, and fennel, this soup is both delicious and healthy.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the flavors, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything you need right here to create a delicious pot of Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you want a lighter version, try swapping out the spicy sausage for turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage alternatives.
• Change up the veggies: Use whatever seasonal vegetables you have around—zucchini or bell peppers make great additions!
• Add some heat: For an extra kick, toss in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
• Go vegetarian: Omit the sausage altogether for a delightful vegetarian version that still packs a punch with flavors.

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

If you’re using gnocchi, start by cooking them according to the package instructions. It’s best to keep them warm while you prepare the rest of your soup. This little step ensures they are perfectly tender when served.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat and drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil. Once it’s hot, crumble in your spicy Italian sausage. Browning it not only adds flavor but also creates a wonderful base for your soup. After a few minutes of cooking, throw in your leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Stir everything together well! A pinch of salt and black pepper plus some Italian seasoning enhances those lovely veggie flavors.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Now it’s garlic time! Stir in those fragrant pressed cloves until they become aromatic—this usually takes about a minute. Next up are your chopped tomatoes and navy beans; pour them into the pot along with six cups of chicken stock or broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all those beautiful ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer Away!

Cover your pot and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly while softening those veggies just right. After simmering away happily on your stovetop, take off the lid and stir in your chopped kale. The kale will wilt beautifully into your hot soup. Don’t forget to add that squeeze of lemon for brightness!

Step 5: Serve It Up

To serve your delicious creation, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi into each bowl before ladling hot soup over them. Drizzle with a touch more olive oil if you like and sprinkle on some parmesan cheese if desired. Sit back and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

And there you have it—your very own bowl of warmth straight from Italy! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Making this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is a delightful experience, and a few pro tips can help you achieve the best results!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables enhances the flavor and nutritional value of your soup. Look for vibrant, crisp produce at your local market to make every bowl burst with freshness.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder soup, opt for sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy. Conversely, if you love heat, consider adding red pepper flakes during cooking for an extra kick.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer will deepen the flavors. If time permits, let it sit for 30 minutes before serving to allow all the ingredients to meld beautifully.

• Customize Your Greens: While kale is a fantastic choice, feel free to swap in other greens like spinach or Swiss chard depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference.

• Make It Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just be sure to store the gnocchi separately if you’re making them; they can become mushy in the soup.

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving this hearty soup is as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or additional parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens every bite.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm crusty bread for dipping. This complements the soup’s rich broth and makes for a comforting meal.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of fresh lemon zest sprinkled on top right before serving can elevate the flavors and add a delightful aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic side pairs wonderfully with any soup. The buttery garlic flavor complements the savory broth perfectly.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the soup.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add texture and additional flavors. Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers drizzled with olive oil and herbs.

• Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed with olives, cherry tomatoes, and Italian dressing makes an excellent side dish that balances out the warmth of the soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage will surely be a hit at your table! Enjoy each spoonful as it warms both your heart and soul.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch at once, ensuring you have delicious, hearty soup ready to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions.

Freezing

• Freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It’s best to freeze without the gnocchi; add that fresh when serving.
• Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or reheat directly from frozen on low heat.
• Heat on the stove until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the spicy sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. You’ll still have a flavorful and satisfying soup!

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

The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container!

Can I add other vegetables to my Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in any seasonal or favorite veggies you have on hand—zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans would all work wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need comfort food. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients. I’d love to hear how your version turns out!