Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and soul, you’re in for a treat with this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage. It’s one of those recipes I turn to on chilly evenings when I want something nourishing yet easy to whip up. The rich broth, vibrant veggies, and zesty sausage come together beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal.

What makes this soup truly special is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a hearty main dish or pair it with crusty bread for dipping. Trust me; your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll be savoring a delicious bowl in no time.
• Packed with nutrition: Full of vegetables and beans, this soup is not only hearty but also loaded with nutrients.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the flavors in this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage.
• Make-ahead convenience: It stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Adaptable flavors: You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage uses fresh produce and flavorful spices to create a delightful meal. 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
• 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

One of the best parts about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have available.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for spicy sausage, try using ground turkey or chicken instead.
• Add more greens: Spinach or Swiss chard can be great alternatives to kale.
• Change up the beans: Black beans or chickpeas would work wonderfully in place of navy beans.
• Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth for an equally delicious soup.

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

If you’re adding gnocchi to your soup (and I highly recommend it!), go ahead and cook them according to the package instructions. Once done, set them aside while you prepare the rest of your soup. Keeping them warm ensures they won’t become mushy later.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of oil. When it’s hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage. Browning it adds depth to your soup’s flavor. Let it cook for a few minutes until it’s nicely browned.

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

Next up are those lovely leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery! Stir them all together with a pinch of salt and pepper along with some Italian seasoning. Sautéing these vegetables until tender brings out their natural sweetness and creates a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Once your veggies are tender—about 5 minutes or so—stir in the garlic. Cook it just until fragrant before adding in those chopped tomatoes and rinsed navy beans. Pour in your chicken stock/broth next; this helps everything meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer Away!

Cover your pot and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to develop while ensuring your veggies are perfectly tender. Once done simmering, turn off the heat; stir in kale, flat-leaf parsley, and that refreshing squeeze of lemon juice! Taste your soup again; feel free to add more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

To serve, place a small amount of cooked gnocchi into bowls before ladling hot soup over the top. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle some parmesan cheese if you’d like! It’s time to dig into a bowl of comfort—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Creating a delicious Italian vegetable soup is all about layering flavors and textures, so here are some pro tips to help you achieve the best results!

• Choose high-quality sausage: Using fresh, high-quality spicy Italian sausage will elevate your soup’s flavor profile. The richness of the sausage infuses the broth with a savory depth that makes every spoonful satisfying.

• Don’t rush the sauté: Taking your time to sauté the vegetables until they are tender and aromatic builds a strong base for your soup. This step enhances the overall flavor and gives your broth a delightful complexity.

• Use homemade or low-sodium broth: Opting for homemade chicken stock or low-sodium varieties allows you to control the salt levels in your soup. This way, you can season to taste without overwhelming the dish.

• Experiment with seasonal veggies: Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables that catch your eye! Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans can add variety and freshness, making each batch of soup unique.

• Let it rest: If time allows, let your soup sit for 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious dish.

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving your Italian vegetable soup can be just as delightful as preparing it! Here are some fun ideas to present this hearty dish that will impress everyone at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped basil or additional parsley adds a burst of freshness and color right before serving.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A finishing touch of high-quality olive oil enhances the rich flavors and gives a beautiful sheen to your soup.
• Croutons or toasted bread: Adding croutons or serving alongside toasted baguette slices offers a delightful crunch that complements the smooth broth.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your savory soup. The buttery garlic flavor pairs beautifully with each spoonful.
• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup, balancing out the meal perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serving roasted seasonal vegetables alongside your soup adds extra texture and nutrition while enhancing the Italian theme.
• Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the heartiness of the vegetable soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Enjoy every bite!

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 it properly to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you have added gnocchi, it’s best to store them separately from the soup to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your soup by adding or substituting your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.

How do I make this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the spicy sausage and add more vegetables or plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas for added texture and flavor.

Can I add more spice to my Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Yes! If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing your vegetables.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this hearty and comforting Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage as much as I do! It’s not just about filling your belly; it’s about sharing love through food. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or serving it up for family and friends, this recipe brings warmth and joy. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every spoonful!