Italian Sausage Soup

Italian Sausage Soup

Italian Sausage Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that brings the warmth and flavors of Italy right to your kitchen.

This comforting soup features savory Italian sausage, a medley of vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a filling meal.

The balance of flavors—from the spice of the sausage to the freshness of the vegetables—makes this soup not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference), casings removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

How to Make Italian Sausage Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure it is no longer pink and is cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables 3. In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and the onion becomes translucent. 4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients 5. Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. 6. Return the browned sausage to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken or vegetable broth, and cannellini beans. 7. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup 8. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.

Step 5: Add Greens and Final Touches 9. If using, add the fresh spinach or kale to the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir until the greens are wilted and incorporated into the soup. 10. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 6: Serve 11. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Chef’s Note

This Italian Sausage Soup is incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it based on your preferences and seasonal ingredients. You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or green beans for added nutrition. If you enjoy a spicier soup, consider using hot Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

For a heartier version, you can serve the soup over cooked pasta or with a slice of crusty bread. It also makes great leftovers; the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the refrigerator. To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Italian Sausage Soup is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bowl. With its rich broth, tender sausage, and nutritious vegetables, this soup is perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy it as a hearty dinner or serve it as a starter at a gathering. Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, this Italian Sausage Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household!

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