Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a flavorful and hearty dish that warms the soul. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this recipe boasts a rich broth filled with fresh vegetables and tender gnocchi, making it a delightful meal option. The combination of spices and ingredients ensures every bite is packed with flavor, while the ease of preparation allows anyone to whip up this comforting soup quickly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: With its rich broth and vegetables, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings.
• Flavorful Spices: The spicy Italian sausage adds a kick, balancing beautifully with the fresh ingredients.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with garlic bread for an extra treat.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables and beans, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Garlic press (optional)
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps you chop vegetables quickly and safely.
• Garlic press: If you love garlic, this tool makes it easy to add flavor without hassle.

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 (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

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

If preparing the gnocchi:
1. Cook them according to the package instructions.
2. Set them aside while keeping them warm.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
2. Drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil; once hot:
3. Crumble in the spicy Italian sausage.
4. Brown for a few minutes.
5. Add in leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery; stir together.
6. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper plus the Italian seasoning.
7. Sauté everything until the veggies become tender.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

1. Stir in the garlic; once aromatic:
2. Add the chopped tomatoes.
3. Add navy beans.
4. Pour in chicken stock/broth; stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes or until veggies are tender.
2. Turn off the heat; stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and lemon squeeze.
3. Check for additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

1. In a bowl, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi.
2. Ladle hot soup over it.
3. Drizzle with olive oil; sprinkle parmesan if desired.
4. Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort!

Servings: Serves 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: italian vegetable soup recipe

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is an experience in itself. The warmth and heartiness of the soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. A rustic loaf or a baguette works perfectly to soak up the rich broth.

Garnished with Herbs

• Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving for a fresh flavor boost. This adds a vibrant touch and enhances the aroma.

Topped with Cheese

• Add some shaved or grated parmesan cheese on top for a creamy finish. The cheese melts slightly into the hot soup, enriching each bite.

As Part of a Larger Meal

• Serve it alongside a light salad for a balanced meal. A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup nicely.

In Individual Bowls

• Portion the soup into individual bowls for a cozy presentation. This makes it perfect for entertaining or family dinners.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To elevate your Italian vegetable soup, consider these helpful tips that will make your dish even more delightful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables add vibrant flavors and improve the overall taste of the soup. Choose seasonal produce whenever possible.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, add red pepper flakes along with the Italian sausage during cooking. This allows you to control the spiciness to your liking.

• Experiment with Broth: Use homemade chicken broth if available; it provides a richer flavor compared to store-bought options. If you’re in a pinch, low-sodium versions work well too.

• Make It Ahead: Prepare this soup a day in advance; flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier when reheated.

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on what you have at home. This increases nutritional value and adds variety.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Italian vegetable soup can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into the savory broth.

2. Simple Green Salad
   A mix of greens dressed lightly in olive oil and lemon offers freshness that balances the richness of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide additional texture and flavor contrast alongside your soup.

4. Cheesy Polenta
   Creamy polenta topped with cheese creates a comforting side dish that complements the soup’s heartiness well.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with quinoa, herbs, and spices make for an interesting side that’s both nutritious and flavorful.

6. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil delivers bright flavors that pair wonderfully with each spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing your vegetables and sausage enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this step; allow the ingredients to become tender before adding liquids.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Salt and pepper can make or break your dish. Always taste as you go and adjust seasonings before serving.
• Overcooking the vegetables: If you cook the vegetables too long, they may become mushy. Aim for tenderness but retain some crunch for better texture.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key flavor component. Choose a high-quality chicken stock or homemade broth for the best results.
• Not adding acidity: A squeeze of lemon brightens the soup’s flavor. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the entire dish.
• Forgetting to garnish: Garnishes like parsley or parmesan add visual appeal and extra flavor. Always finish your soup with a sprinkle of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It stays fresh for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage that might help you out.

Can I substitute gnocchi with other pasta?

Yes! You can use any small pasta shape if you prefer not to use gnocchi.

How do I spice up my Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

What other vegetables can I include?

Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach based on your preference!

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure your gnocchi or pasta is gluten-free and check your stock for gluten content.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only hearty but also customizable! You can swap out vegetables based on what you have at home or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. It’s perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners—give it a try!