A Cozy Bowl of Flavor (Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage)

Wrap yourself in a warm blanket of deliciousness with this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage! Picture it now: a steaming bowl brimming with vibrant vegetables, zesty sausage, and tender gnocchi, all cozily swimming in a rich, savory broth. Each spoonful is like a hug on a chilly day, bursting with flavors that dance together in perfect harmony. This recipe is not just soup; it’s an experience that will transport you straight to an Italian trattoria!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is simply irresistible, and here’s why:
– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of spicy sausage and fresh vegetables creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
– Hearty and Satisfying: With tender gnocchi and a medley of veggies, this soup will fill you up and warm your soul.
– Flexible & Fast: Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s straightforward to whip up and can easily be customized.
– One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to savor this delectable dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients and get ready to create a comforting masterpiece! The key players here are the spicy Italian sausage and creamy gnocchi, which elevate this soup to a whole new level.

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– 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

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

One of the best things about this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is how customizable it is! Feel free to create your own version with these delicious twists:
– Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi or skip it altogether for a lighter soup.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in cooked chicken or turkey for an added protein boost.
– Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
– Swap the Dressing: Try different herbs like thyme or basil for a unique aroma.
– Cheese it Up: Stir in some creamy ricotta or mozzarella for a cheesy delight!

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Ready to dive into this flavorful dish? Let’s get cooking!

1. Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi (Optional)
If you’re including gnocchi, cook it according to the package instructions. Once tender, set it aside, keeping warm.

2. Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies
In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of oil. Once it’s shimmering, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage, browning it for a few minutes. Add the leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper along with Italian seasoning, and sauté until the veggies are tender and fragrant!

3. Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes
Stir in the minced garlic until aromatic, then toss in the chopped tomatoes and navy beans. Pour in the chicken stock and stir to combine.

4. Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully. Once the veggies are perfectly tender, turn off the heat and stir in the kale, parsley, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed!

5. Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
In a bowl, add a small handful of cooked gnocchi, ladle some of the hot, savory soup over it, drizzle with a bit more olive oil, and sprinkle with parmesan if desired. Dig in and enjoy the comforting goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

– Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies in advance to save time on busy nights.
– Perfect the Sausage: For an extra crispy texture, let the sausage brown well before adding the vegetables.
– Layer Flavors: For deeper flavor, let the soup simmer a little longer—if time allows!
– Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving; it’s the best way to ensure it’s seasoned just right!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Garnishes

Elevate your soup with gorgeous garnishes like freshly chopped parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of shaved parmesan cheese for that extra touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

Pair this delightful soup with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal! The crunch of a fresh baguette will perfectly complement the soup’s comforting richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage in individual bowls topped with garnishes, or present it in a large pot for a family-style feast! It’s also fantastic for lunchboxes—just pack it in a thermos for a warm midday treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will only get better!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-friendly containers. It will stay good for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm it on the stove until heated through. If you included gnocchi, you may want to add a splash of broth to loosen the soup!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to switch to chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild spice from the Italian sausage, but you can adjust the heat level based on your preference!

How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure that your broth is gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a warm, hearty, and utterly delicious Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage that’s perfect for any occasion! This recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home, bringing smiles and comfort to your table. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and let this vibrant soup transport you to Italy with every delightful spoonful. Happy cooking!