Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul, this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is a perfect choice! It’s rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor. This soup has become a staple in my home, especially on those chilly evenings when all you want is something comforting and delicious. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights yet special enough to serve at family gatherings or even dinner parties.

What makes this recipe truly special is how it combines vibrant vegetables and spicy sausage in a savory broth that makes every bite delightful. Plus, the addition of tender gnocchi takes it to another level of satisfaction. Trust me; your loved ones will keep coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with wholesome ingredients, even picky eaters will enjoy this dish!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or substitute the sausage for your preferred protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, you’ll only need simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need!

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! If you want to switch things up or use what you have on hand, here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Add more greens: Throw in some spinach or Swiss chard for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Go vegetarian: Omit the sausage entirely and substitute vegetable broth for an equally satisfying meat-free version.
• Change up the beans: Try using chickpeas or black beans instead of navy beans for a different texture.

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

If you’re including gnocchi in your soup, start by cooking them according to the package instructions. Once done, set them aside while keeping them warm. This little bit of prep ensures that your gnocchi stays tender when added to the soup later.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

Next, place a large soup pot over medium-high heat and drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil. Once hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage. Browning the sausage not only adds flavor but also creates a nice base for your vegetables. After a few minutes of cooking, toss in leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Sauté everything together until those veggies soften up nicely—this step helps unlock their sweetness.

Step 3: Stir in Garlic and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to add some aromatic goodness! Stir in the pressed garlic until fragrant—this shouldn’t take long—then add the chopped tomatoes and navy beans. Pour in the chicken stock (or broth) next; this brings everything together into a beautiful soup base.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Cover your pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until those veggies reach tender perfection. When they’re ready to go, turn off the heat and stir in kale along with parsley and that lovely squeeze of lemon juice. Give it a taste—adjusting salt and pepper as needed will make sure everything shines.

Step 5: Serve Up Your Soup

To serve this comforting bowl of joy, add some cooked gnocchi into each bowl before ladling hot soup over them. Finish it off with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired. Now sit back and savor every warm bite!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Creating the perfect Italian vegetable soup is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors and nutrients to your soup, making it more appealing and healthy.

• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder soup, look for sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy. Conversely, add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you love heat!

• Don’t rush the sautéing: Allowing the leeks, fennel, and other vegetables to sauté until tender develops their natural sweetness and deepens the overall flavor of the soup.

• Let it simmer: Giving your soup enough time to simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer and more complex your broth will become.

• Customize with seasonal veggies: Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans can make delightful additions that keep your soup fresh and exciting!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving this hearty Italian vegetable soup is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Here are some delightful ways to present your dish that will impress family and friends alike!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or additional parsley on top adds a burst of freshness and color.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving enhances richness and brings all the flavors together.
• Grated cheese: While optional, a sprinkle of shaved or grated parmesan cheese provides a delightful salty note that complements the soup perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. The texture contrasts beautifully with the broth and adds heartiness to your meal.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing side that balances the richness of the soup.
• Garlic knots: These soft, buttery knots infused with garlic flavor are fun to eat alongside your soup. Their satisfying chewiness makes them a crowd-pleaser!
• Cheesy polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese can serve as a comforting side that complements the robust flavors in your soup while adding creaminess.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a deliciously comforting bowl of Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch in advance, ensuring you have delicious, hearty lunches or dinners ready to go 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 4 days.
• If you’ve added gnocchi, consider storing it separately to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label containers with the date and type of soup.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of sausage in this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Absolutely! You can substitute spicy Italian sausage with any other type of sausage that you prefer, such as chicken or turkey sausage, to suit your taste.

What vegetables can I add to my Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Feel free to get creative! Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach would be great additions. Just be mindful of cooking times so everything turns out tender!

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last for about 4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is special not only because it’s packed with flavor but also because it brings warmth and comfort to your table. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to nourish yourself and your loved ones while savoring all those vibrant veggies and spices. Happy cooking!