Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is just what you need. Imagine sitting down after a long day, sipping on a bowl of rich, savory broth filled with fresh veggies and tender gnocchi. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug from an old friend and is perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something hearty yet comforting.

This soup is not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The combination of flavors flows together beautifully, making it a favorite in our home. It’s versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand, and it can easily be made ahead of time for those nights when you need a quick meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe comes together quickly, perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its tasty ingredients, everyone at the table will love it.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and beans, it’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and reheat for an easy dinner option.
• Flavorful Comfort: The spicy sausage adds a delightful kick that makes this soup truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that create a mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll 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 to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 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

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or use up whatever veggies are hanging out in your fridge. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add more vegetables: Feel free to toss in zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes if you like an extra kick!
• Try different beans: Chickpeas or black beans can be great alternatives to navy beans.

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

If you’re using gnocchi in your soup, start by cooking them according to the package instructions. Keeping them warm while you prepare the rest of the soup ensures they stay tender without getting mushy.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil. Once hot, crumble in the spicy sausage. Browning adds depth of flavor and gives your soup that hearty base we love!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Next up! Add in your leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Stir everything together along with a pinch of salt and pepper plus Italian seasoning. Sautéing these vegetables until they’re tender brings out their natural sweetness—this step is vital for building flavor!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the garlic until it’s aromatic—this only takes about 30 seconds. Then add in your chopped tomatoes and navy beans before pouring in the chicken stock/broth. Give everything a good stir to combine—it’s starting to smell amazing!

Step 5: Simmer Away

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until all those lovely veggies are tender. When it’s done cooking, remove from heat and gently stir in kale, parsley, and that squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Taste it; adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve It Up

To serve! Place a small amount of gnocchi into individual bowls before ladling hot soup over them. A drizzle of olive oil on top along with some parmesan makes it even more irresistible—enjoy every spoonful!

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is sure to become a beloved go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Creating the perfect Italian vegetable soup is all about the little details that elevate the dish from good to great. Here are some pro tips to make your soup shine:

• 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.

• Sauté the sausage well: Browning the spicy sausage thoroughly adds depth of flavor to your broth. The caramelization process enhances the overall taste of your soup.

• Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like Italian seasoning can transform your soup into a fragrant masterpiece. Herbs add layers of complexity that complement the other ingredients beautifully.

• Adjust seasoning at the end: Tasting and adjusting your soup’s salt and pepper levels right before serving ensures that every bowl is perfectly seasoned, enhancing the overall experience.

• Let it rest: Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together, resulting in an even richer taste when you serve it.

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving this hearty Italian vegetable soup should be as delightful as making it. Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil or parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• A drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can enhance flavors and give your soup a luxurious finish.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who love an extra kick, offering red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to customize their heat level.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread pairs perfectly with this soup, ideal for dipping and soaking up all that delicious broth.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic knots: These soft, buttery knots infused with garlic make for a fun and tasty side that everyone will love alongside their soup.
• Cheesy polenta: Creamy polenta topped with melted cheese serves as a comforting side, providing an additional layer of heartiness to your meal.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage! Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or part of a larger gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. 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, saving time during busy weekdays while still enjoying a warm, hearty meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Leftovers can be stored for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label and date the containers for easy identification!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, or use the microwave on defrost mode.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If needed, add a splash of water or broth to adjust consistency.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage ahead of time?

Yes! This soup stores well in the fridge and even freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

What vegetables work best in Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Feel free to mix and match seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to customize your soup to your taste!

How spicy is this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

The level of spice depends on the type of sausage you use. If you prefer less heat, look for mild Italian sausage instead.

Can I substitute gnocchi in Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Absolutely! You can replace gnocchi with other pasta types or even omit it entirely if you’re looking for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is truly special—it’s not only comforting but also packed with vibrant flavors from fresh vegetables and spices. I hope you have a wonderful time making it in your kitchen! Enjoy every spoonful of warmth and nourishment, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!