Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is a warm and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. It combines fresh vegetables with a touch of spice from Italian sausage, creating a comforting meal. The addition of gnocchi makes it extra satisfying, while the vibrant flavors make it a delightful choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious homemade soup ready in no time.
• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of vegetables and gnocchi makes this soup filling and nourishing.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
• Flavorful and Aromatic: Fresh herbs and spices elevate the taste, making each spoonful a delight.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To create this flavorful Italian vegetable soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Garlic press
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering ingredients together evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring even cooking.
• Garlic press: Makes mincing garlic quick and easy, enhancing the soup’s flavor profile without fuss.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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, washed, halved, and sliced thinly (white part only)
• 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, then set them aside, keeping them warm.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil; once hot, crumble in the spicy sausage. Brown for a few minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add in leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery; stir together. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes until veggies are tender.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the pressed garlic until fragrant. Then add chopped tomatoes and navy beans; pour in chicken stock/broth. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and simmer for about 20 minutes or until all veggies are tender. Turn off heat; stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and lemon juice. Taste for seasoning.

Step 6: Serve

Place a small amount of cooked gnocchi into bowls. Ladle hot soup over them. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage can elevate your meal experience. The combination of rich flavors and hearty ingredients makes it a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked or toasted bread pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop.

Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top adds richness and enhances the flavors of the soup.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling fresh herbs like basil or additional parsley adds a burst of freshness and color.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette complements the hearty soup and balances the meal.

Garnish with Cheese

• Use shaved or grated parmesan cheese as a garnish for an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Enjoy with Gnocchi on the Side

• If you prefer, serve gnocchi separately so guests can add their desired amount to their bowls.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Perfecting your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage involves attention to detail. Following these tips can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh seasonal veggies will provide better flavor and nutrition than frozen or canned options.
• Adjust Spice Level: Customize the spiciness by selecting different types of sausage or adding red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps all flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich broth.
• Experiment with Broths: Try using homemade chicken broth for a more robust flavor compared to store-bought options.
• Add Lemon Juice Last: Adding lemon juice at the end brightens the dish without cooking off its fresh flavor.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Complementing your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage requires selecting side dishes that match its heartiness. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and savory, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your flavorful broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to warm, hearty soup.
3. Antipasto Platter: A variety of marinated vegetables, olives, and cheeses create a delightful appetizer before the main course.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and another layer of flavor to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can be a filling side that pairs well with the spices in your soup.
6. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes offer a unique texture while complementing the rich flavors of your soup.
7. Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, bruschetta provides a fresh bite that balances out the hearty nature of the soup.
8. Cheesy Risotto: Creamy risotto can serve as a comforting side dish that echoes the rich Italian flavors in your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple errors when making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid for a perfect soup.

• Using the wrong vegetables: Not all vegetables work well in this soup. Stick to the recommended fresh vegetables like leeks, fennel, and kale for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the sausage: Browning the sausage is key, but cooking it too long can make it tough. Aim for just a few minutes until nicely browned.
• Skipping the seasoning: Under-seasoned soup can taste bland. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Neglecting to taste: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasonings as needed to enhance the flavor profile.
• Not using enough broth: A rich broth is essential for a hearty soup. Ensure you use enough chicken stock to create a deliciously brothy base.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating later.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil. Heat until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage that may help you out.

Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage vegetarian?

You can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian version.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to customize your soup by adding vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach based on your preference or what you have on hand.

How do I store leftovers of Italian Vegetable Soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze portions for longer storage.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes! Using store-bought gnocchi saves time and adds convenience. Just cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the soup.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only satisfying but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust spices according to your taste preferences. It’s a perfect meal for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something hearty and nourishing!