Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is my go-to comfort dish, especially on chilly evenings. The combination of vibrant vegetables, flavorful spices, and tender gnocchi makes this soup not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when everyone needs a hug in a bowl.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can whip it up in just about 45 minutes, making it an excellent choice for those nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make every spoonful feel like a warm embrace!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can have this meal ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the rich flavors and cozy textures—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make a big batch and enjoy leftovers.
• Hearty and filling: The addition of gnocchi makes this soup extra satisfying, turning it into a complete meal.
• Packed with nutrients: Full of fresh vegetables and beans, this recipe is as good for you as it is comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage, you’ll need some simple and wholesome staples that pack a punch of flavor. 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to play around with:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of sausage or want to keep it meat-free, try using some plant-based sausage or even just loading up on more veggies!
• Add more greens: Feel free to toss in other leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the beans: Navy beans work great here, but chickpeas or cannellini beans would also be delicious.
• Spice it up: Add more heat with crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like your soup extra spicy!

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

If you’re using gnocchi in your soup (which I highly recommend!), start by cooking them according to the package instructions. Set them aside while you prepare the soup. Keeping them warm ensures they stay tender when added later.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once it’s hot, crumble in your spicy Italian sausage. Brown it for a few minutes until it’s nice and golden. Now add in your leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery. Stir everything together! Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until those lovely veggies become tender—this step builds layers of flavor.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Once your veggies are tender—and oh-so-aromatic—stir in the garlic. Let it sizzle until fragrant; this will awaken all those flavors! Then add the chopped tomatoes along with navy beans. Pour in your chicken stock or broth next; stir well to combine everything.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover your pot and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together while ensuring your veggies are cooked just right! Once done simmering, turn off the heat before stirring in kale, parsley, and that lovely squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Step 5: Serve Up Your Delicious Creation

To serve up this delightful soup, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi to each bowl before ladling some hot soup over top. Drizzle with olive oil if you’d like (trust me—it adds richness!), plus a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired. Now dig in—you deserve every tasty spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Making this soup is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables contribute significantly to the flavor profile of your soup, making it taste vibrant and wholesome. Whenever possible, opt for seasonal produce.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or using an extra spicy sausage variety. This allows you to customize the spiciness to your liking.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer than the recommended time can deepen the flavors. Just be sure to check that the vegetables don’t overcook.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the aroma and flavor. Fresh herbs can bring a new layer of freshness to your soup.

• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge; just be sure to add freshly cooked gnocchi when serving.

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving this delicious Italian vegetable soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes that enhance its flavors.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or additional parsley right before serving for brightness and color.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of toasted bread on top adds texture and is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil not only enhances flavor but also adds an elegant finish to your bowl.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this soup, perfect for scooping up every last drop.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the hearty nature of the soup. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds another layer of flavor while keeping things healthy and colorful on your table.
• Stuffed Peppers: Lightly seasoned stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice make for a filling side that complements the savory notes of the soup perfectly.

Enjoy creating this hearty Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage; it’s not just a meal—it’s an experience meant to be shared!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is perfect for meal prep! It’s hearty, flavorful, and even better the next day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage without gnocchi?

Absolutely! You can enjoy this soup as is or replace gnocchi with another pasta of your choice or even skip it entirely for a lighter version.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last about 4 days in the refrigerator.

What vegetables can I add to Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. They’ll enhance both flavor and nutrition!

Can I substitute the spicy sausage in Italian Vegetable Soup?

Definitely! You can swap the spicy Italian sausage for a mild variety or even plant-based sausage if you prefer a vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage! It’s a comforting dish that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or preparing it for meal prep, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!