Dive into the comforting embrace of this Italian Sausage Soup, where savory sausages mingle with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a warm, filling meal. With a delightful combination of flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients
– 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– Grated Parmesan for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 300 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 4g fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. 2. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pot. 3. Cook the sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. 4. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent. 5. Stir in the carrots, celery, and bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes. 6. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and chicken broth. 7. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then bring to a boil. 8. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes. 9. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. 10. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan. 
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option. You can also replace spinach with kale or chard for a different flavor and texture. Additionally, canned beans can be added for extra protein.
Serving and Pairings
This Italian sausage soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A light salad or a glass of red wine can also enhance the dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months, but add fresh spinach after reheating for the best texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip browning the sausage; it adds depth of flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly tender.
- Adjust the seasoning gradually to avoid over-salting.
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Let the soup simmer to blend flavors, but don’t boil it vigorously.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of it and return it to the pot.
- Experiment with different vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- Make it a complete meal by adding cooked pasta or rice.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables in this soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used as a convenient alternative. They may not need to be cooked as long, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, ensure that the sausage and broth are labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the sausage and veggies first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking to increase the heat level to your preference.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or homemade stocks can be excellent substitutes if you want to keep it vegetarian or are out of chicken broth.
Conclusion
This Italian Sausage Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm you from the inside out. It’s not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste. Enjoy this comforting dish with loved ones, and it is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Italian Sausage Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage mild or spicy
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat.
- Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pot.
- Cook the sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and chicken broth.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan.
Nutrition
