Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul, this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl. Packed with vibrant vegetables and hearty spices, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when everyone needs a little extra love. Plus, the addition of tender gnocchi makes it even more delightful!

I truly believe this soup is special because it combines wholesome ingredients with bold flavors. Each spoonful is a burst of deliciousness, whether you’re snuggled on the couch or sharing stories at the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Family-friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike; everyone loves a warm bowl of soup!
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep, you can store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Packed with flavor: The combination of spicy sausage and fresh vegetables creates a rich broth that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage. You’ll find everything you need right here!

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 experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste!

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of spicy sausage, try using ground turkey or chicken for a milder flavor.
• Add more greens: Toss in other leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Boost the spice: Want more heat? Add red pepper flakes along with the garlic for an extra kick!
• Use different beans: Swap out navy beans for chickpeas or black beans to mix things up.

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

If you’re adding gnocchi to your soup, start by cooking them according to the package instructions. This ensures they’re tender and ready when it’s time to serve. Keep them warm while you prepare the rest of the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil. Once it’s hot, crumble in the spicy sausage. Brown it for a few minutes until it’s nice and crispy. Then add leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Season with salt and pepper along with Italian seasoning. Sauté everything together until the veggies become tender; this step builds layers of flavor that make your soup unforgettable.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

When your veggies are softening beautifully, stir in minced garlic until it becomes aromatic—this takes just about a minute! Next up are your chopped tomatoes and navy beans. Pour in chicken stock/broth and give everything a good stir so all those flavors meld together.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Cover your pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those lovely flavors to develop further while making sure your vegetables are perfectly tender. Once done simmering, turn off the heat and fold in freshly chopped kale and parsley along with that refreshing squeeze of lemon juice.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

To serve, add a small scoop of cooked gnocchi into bowls before ladling hot soup over them. Finish with an extra drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top if desired. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

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 tips to ensure your soup is a hit!

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh produce not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant colors and nutrients to your soup. Look for seasonal vegetables whenever possible.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder soup, you can use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy. Alternatively, add more crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you love heat!

• Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for a bit longer enhances the flavors as they meld together. Just be sure to keep an eye on the veggies to ensure they don’t overcook.

• Customize your beans: Feel free to swap navy beans with other types like cannellini or chickpeas. Each bean brings its unique texture and taste, making your soup even more interesting.

• Store leftovers wisely: If you have leftovers, store the gnocchi separately from the soup to prevent them from becoming mushy. Reheat them separately before serving.

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Presenting your Italian vegetable soup can elevate the dining experience and make it feel extra special! Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or more parsley adds aromatic freshness that complements the hearty flavors of the soup.
• Olive oil drizzle: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving enhances richness and adds a gorgeous sheen.
• Cracked black pepper: A few cracks of fresh black pepper on top right before serving can heighten the flavor profile without overwhelming spice.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up every last drop of delicious broth.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
• Cheesy polenta: Creamy polenta topped with melted cheese pairs beautifully with this robust soup, making for a comforting meal.
• Roasted seasonal vegetables: Brightly roasted vegetables add color to your table and complement the flavors in the soup while providing extra nutrients.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage in your kitchen! The warmth and heartiness will surely become a favorite in your home. 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 and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep gnocchi separate if you’ve added them; they are best stored separately from the soup.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; remember to label your containers!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until it reaches your desired temperature, stirring occasionally.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out.

Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the spicy sausage with plant-based sausage or simply omit it altogether. Add more vegetables or beans for extra heartiness.

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 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

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

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

What’s a good side dish to serve with Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

A crusty piece of bread or a simple green salad pairs wonderfully with this hearty soup.

Is Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage easy to make?

Yes! This recipe is not only easy to follow but also takes just under an hour from start to finish. Perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage! It brings warmth and comfort while being hearty and nutritious. Enjoy every spoonful, share it with loved ones, or savor it all by yourself. Happy cooking!