Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any night of the week, then this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is just the ticket! Imagine coming home to the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen. This soup is not only comforting but also packed with hearty vegetables and a bit of spice that warms your soul. It’s my go-to recipe when I want something nourishing and delicious, especially on those busy days when time is tight.

Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself to a delightful meal, this soup fits right in. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to serve at a gathering with friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: The addition of tender gnocchi makes this soup extra satisfying, turning it into a complete meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have this soup simmering in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors, and you can sneak in plenty of veggies without them noticing.
• Make-Ahead Goodness: This soup tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix up the veggies or spices based on what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is one of the most enjoyable parts of cooking! For this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.

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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If you prefer a vegetarian option, feel free to leave out the sausage or replace it with plant-based sausage for that spicy kick!
• Change up the veggies: Add in your favorites like zucchini or bell peppers—or use whatever is in season!
• Add more greens: Spinach or Swiss chard make excellent substitutes for kale and add even more nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

If you’re using gnocchi in your soup, start by cooking them according to package instructions. This gives them time to become nice and fluffy while you prepare the rest of your ingredients. Keeping them warm ensures they’ll be perfect when it’s time to serve!

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

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

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

Next up are those beautiful leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery! Stir them into the pot along with a pinch of salt and pepper plus Italian seasoning. Sauté everything together until the veggies are tender—this will deepen their flavors and create an aromatic base for your soup.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to add garlic! Stir it in until fragrant—this should take just a minute. Then add your chopped tomatoes and navy beans into the mix before pouring in the chicken stock. Give everything a good stir to combine all those lovely flavors together.

Step 5: Simmer Away!

Cover your pot and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while ensuring your vegetables are cooked perfectly. Once done cooking, turn off the heat and stir in kale, parsley, and that refreshing squeeze of lemon juice. Taste it—if it needs more salt or pepper; now’s your chance!

Step 6: Serve It Up

To serve, place some cooked gnocchi into bowls before ladling hot soup over top. Drizzle with olive oil if desired and sprinkle with parmesan cheese for an extra touch. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Creating a deliciously hearty soup can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhances the flavor but also ensures the soup is packed with nutrients. The freshness will make your dish vibrant and colorful.

• Don’t Rush the Browning: Allow the sausage to brown properly before adding the vegetables. This step develops a deeper, richer flavor in the broth that elevates the overall taste of the soup.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adding salt and pepper in small increments allows you to control the seasoning without overpowering the natural flavors of your ingredients.

• Experiment with Greens: While kale adds great texture, feel free to substitute or add other greens like spinach or Swiss chard. Each green brings its unique flavor profile and nutritional benefits.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or bell peppers. This not only increases the soup’s heartiness but also makes it more colorful and appealing!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving this delightful soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped basil or extra parsley on top right before serving can enhance freshness and add a pop of color.
• Lemon Zest: A light grating of lemon zest over each bowl adds brightness and a hint of citrus that complements the richness of the soup.
• Crusty Bread: Offer slices of warm, crusty bread on top for an added comforting touch; it’s perfect for dipping!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this soup, providing a rich, buttery crunch that balances the broth’s lightness.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mixed green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar provides a crunchy contrast to the hearty soup.
• Stuffed Peppers: For something heartier, serve roasted stuffed peppers alongside; they’re filled with grains and spices that echo Italian flavors.
• Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with a sprinkle of cheese offers a comforting side that complements the spiciness of the sausage beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that’s sure to warm hearts around your table! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is a fantastic choice for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the soup into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, keep the gnocchi separate to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and type of soup for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

How can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage vegetarian?

You can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the spicy sausage and adding more plant-based proteins like lentils or chickpeas. Replace chicken stock with vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian dish!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans would all be great additions!

How long does Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! With its hearty ingredients and robust flavors, it’s perfect for cozy nights at home or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead. I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!