Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a comforting dish that warms your soul. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in, this soup boasts rich flavors and hearty ingredients. The combination of tender gnocchi and vibrant vegetables makes it a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with vegetables and gnocchi, this soup keeps you full and satisfied.
• Flavorful Combination: The spicy sausage infuses the broth with bold flavors, complemented by the freshness of herbs and vegetables.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you’ll have a pot of delicious soup ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or use leftovers to create your unique version.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cold day or a gathering, this soup fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your delicious Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, gather the essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering your ingredients together without splattering.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware surface.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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

For the Broth

• 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

For Garnish

• 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 Gnocchi (Optional)

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

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

1. Stir in the pressed garlic until aromatic.
2. Add chopped tomatoes and navy beans to the pot.
3. Pour in the chicken stock/broth; stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
2. Turn off the heat; stir in kale, parsley, and lemon juice.
3. Taste for additional salt and pepper if desired.

Step 5: Serve Hot

1. Add a small amount of cooked gnocchi to each bowl.
2. Ladle hot soup over gnocchi.
3. Drizzle with extra olive oil; sprinkle with parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a delightful experience that allows you to enjoy its rich flavors fully. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty feast, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Pair the soup with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Serve with garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top to add brightness and color.
• Basil Leaves – Add fresh basil leaves for a fragrant finish that highlights the Italian flavors.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar offers crispy romaine and creamy dressing, perfect alongside the soup.

As a Part of a Larger Meal

• With Grilled Chicken – Serve alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
• Accompanied by Pasta – Add a small pasta dish as a side, like penne or fettuccine, to round out your meal.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Perfecting this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Adjust Spice Levels – If you prefer less heat, choose milder sausage or reduce the amount used.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately – Cooking gnocchi separately prevents them from becoming overly soft in the soup.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor – Allow the soup to simmer longer if possible; this deepens the flavors significantly.
• Taste Before Serving – Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure balanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

To complement your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, consider these delightful side dishes. Each adds something special to your meal.

1. Garlic Knots – Soft knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that pairs well.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Filled with rice and vegetables, they make for a hearty addition to your meal.
4. Risotto – Creamy risotto can be served alongside for an indulgent touch.
5. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy fritters made from zucchini offer a crunchy contrast to the smooth soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned and roasted veggies add depth and color to your table setting.
7. Polenta Cakes – Soft polenta cakes provide a comforting side that complements the broth well.
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip – A warm dip served with bread can be an inviting appetizer before enjoying your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or pepper can lead to bland soup. Taste as you cook and adjust accordingly.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender but still crisp vegetables by monitoring cooking times closely.
• Not using fresh herbs: Dried herbs can lose potency. Fresh herbs like parsley add a vibrant flavor, so opt for fresh when possible.
• Ignoring the broth quality: Low-quality broth can affect the overall taste of your soup. Choose a flavorful chicken stock for the best results.
• Adding gnocchi too early: If you add gnocchi too soon, they can become mushy. Cook them separately and add them just before serving for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and cover; heat for about 20-30 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage.

Can I use different vegetables in my Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Yes! Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand.

How do I make my Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage spicier?

To increase spiciness, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or using hotter sausage varieties.

How do I store leftovers of Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and replace it with plant-based proteins like lentils or chickpeas.

What can I serve with Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting meal on its own or paired with crusty bread, this soup is sure to satisfy!