Hearty Comfort in a Bowl (Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage)

If you’re in the mood for a bowl of warmth that hugs you from the inside out, look no further than this delightful Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage! Bursting with vibrant vegetables and a kick of spiced sausage, this dish marries the rich essence of Italian cuisine with cozy comfort. As you savor each spoonful, you’ll be enchanted by the tender gnocchi that softens in the hearty broth, making this soup a true masterpiece. It’s like having a warm embrace on chilly days or a stunning centerpiece for your family dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this soul-satisfying soup!

– Big, Bold Flavors: The spicy Italian sausage lends a zesty punch that dances perfectly with sweet veggies.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
– Flexible & Fast: Quick to prepare with versatile ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
– Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your culinary treasures for this delightful soup! Each ingredient plays a key role in creating layers of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. The spicy Italian sausage is truly a flavor game-changer, bringing warmth and richness to every bite. And let’s not forget about the gnocchi, which add a wonderful heartiness to the dish!

– 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

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The deliciousness of Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage doesn’t stop at the original recipe! Here are some creative variations to make it your own:

– Go Gluten-Free: Swap the gnocchi for rice or quinoa to keep it gluten-free and just as satisfying.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken or lentils for an extra protein boost.
– Make it Spicier: If you love heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
– Swap the Dressing: Try incorporating a splash of balsamic vinegar for an added tangy twist.
– Colorful Additions: Add in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Ready to dive into the cooking adventure? Here’s how to whip up this spectacular Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage in just a few easy steps!

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi (Optional)

If you’re using gnocchi, cook them according to the package instructions. Once they’re fluffy and tender, set them aside, keeping them warm while you prepare the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

In a large soup pot, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, crumble the spicy Italian sausage into the pot and brown it for a few minutes. Add in the sliced leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper, along with the Italian seasoning, and sauté until the veggies are tender and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the garlic, allowing its rich aroma to fill your kitchen. Then, toss in the chopped tomatoes and navy beans. Pour in the chicken stock and mix everything together, bringing those fabulous flavors to life.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the veggies reach that perfect tender texture. Once done, turn off the heat and gently stir in the kale, chopped parsley, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

For a delightful presentation, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi to a bowl and ladle the hot soup over it. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese, if desired. Now, dig in and enjoy the hearty goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

– Don’t Rush the Sauté: Allow your vegetables to become tender and slightly caramelized for that deep, rich flavor.
– Customize Your Greens: Kale works beautifully, but feel free to swap in spinach or Swiss chard for a different taste.
– Make-It-a-Meal: Serve with crusty Italian bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.
– Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it before adding the kale.

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Garnishes

Elevate your soup with beautiful garnishes like fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

Pair this delicious soup with a crisp green salad or a side of toasted garlic bread to soak up every drop of that flavorful broth!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun serving idea, try presenting the soup in individual cups for a casual gathering, or pack it into lunchboxes for a tasty midday treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months! Just leave out the gnocchi, as they can become mushy when thawed.

Reheating

To serve after storage, gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens, simply add a splash of broth or water.

FAQs

Can I use chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Chicken sausage will work beautifully and still give you that hearty flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?
The spice comes from the Italian sausage, but feel free to adjust the heat level based on your preference.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply omit the gnocchi or swap it out for a gluten-free alternative like rice or quinoa.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—your ultimate guide to making the most delicious Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage! Packed with flavor, warmth, and nutritious ingredients, this soup is sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones, this dish is bound to spread joy and satisfaction. So grab your spoon, and let the soup celebration begin! Happy cooking! 🌟