Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms you from the inside out, this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is just what you need. It’s become a beloved recipe in our home, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying. The combination of vibrant vegetables and flavorful spicy sausage creates a comforting bowl that everyone will love, making it ideal for family gatherings or simply enjoying on your own with a good book.

What makes this soup truly special is how easy it is to make. You can whip it up in just about 45 minutes, and the ingredients are all simple and wholesome. With a little help from tender gnocchi, this dish turns into a delightful meal that you’ll want to share with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with veggies and flavor, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner later in the week.
• Deliciously Hearty: With the addition of gnocchi, every bowl feels like a warm hug.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple these ingredients are! Each one adds its unique flavor to the mix, creating a rich and satisfying soup. Grab your favorite pot and let’s get cooking!

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season.

• Swap the protein: Substitute spicy sausage with turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or Swiss chard along with the kale for extra nutrition.
• Change up the beans: Use black beans or chickpeas instead of navy beans for a different texture.
• Make it vegan: Omit the sausage entirely and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi (Optional)

If you’re using gnocchi, cook them according to the package instructions. This adds a lovely chewy texture to your soup. Once they’re ready, set them aside while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Drizzle in about two tablespoons of oil—this helps everything sauté nicely. Once hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage. Browning it not only enhances its flavor but also gives depth to your soup base.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery to the pot. Stir everything together! Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sautéing these veggies until they’re tender allows their natural sweetness to shine through.

Step 4: Add Garlic & Tomatoes

Stir in the garlic next; once it becomes aromatic (and trust me—you’ll know!), add those hearty chunks of chopped tomatoes along with rinsed navy beans. Pour in your chicken stock/broth—it’s what makes this soup so rich and brothy!

Step 5: Simmer Away!

Cover your pot and let everything simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until those veggies are perfectly tender. At this point, turn off the heat and stir in fresh kale, flat-leaf parsley, and that delightful squeeze of lemon juice—you’ll be amazed at how bright this makes the flavors!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

To serve, add some cooked gnocchi to bowls before ladling over generous portions of soup. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle parmesan if desired. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Making this soup is a delightful experience, and a few pro tips can help you perfect it!

• Use fresh vegetables – Fresh, seasonal produce not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant colors to your soup, making it visually appealing and nutritious.

• Adjust the spice level – If you prefer milder flavors, consider using mild Italian sausage or reducing the amount of spicy sausage. This way, you can cater to different taste preferences without compromising on taste.

• Make it ahead – Soups often taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare this soup a day in advance and reheat it for a comforting meal that’s even richer in flavor.

• Experiment with greens – Feel free to swap out kale for other greens like spinach or Swiss chard. Each green brings its unique texture and nutritional benefits, allowing you to customize the dish to your liking.

• Add more legumes – For an extra protein boost, consider adding chickpeas or lentils along with the navy beans. This makes the soup heartier and even more satisfying!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Presenting your Italian vegetable soup is almost as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs – A sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano adds a burst of flavor and freshness that complements the hearty soup beautifully.

• Crusty bread croutons – Toast some bread and cut it into cubes; these crunchy bites add texture and are perfect for scooping up the delicious broth.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is a classic pairing with any soup. The buttery, garlicky goodness perfectly complements the rich flavors of your vegetable soup.

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad made with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, balancing out your meal nicely.

• Herbed Quinoa – Serve a side of fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs for a nutritious addition that mirrors the flavors in your soup while providing extra fiber and protein.

Enjoy crafting this inviting Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage, whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a warm, hearty meal ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Keep the gnocchi separate if possible, as it may absorb too much broth and become mushy.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making this delicious dish, you’re in the right place!

Can I use another type of sausage for the Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just ensure it’s a flavorful variety to keep that hearty taste.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of my Italian Vegetable Soup?

You can add more herbs like basil or oregano, a dash of red pepper flakes for extra spice, or even some grated lemon zest for brightness.

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

The soup lasts about 4 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, this Italian Vegetable Soup freezes beautifully! Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions along the way!