Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I made this soup; it was one of those rare days where the snow was falling gently outside, and I had the whole day to enjoy the comforting aromas wafting through my kitchen. As the Italian sausage sizzled in the pot, mingling with the sweetness of onions, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy. This soup became a staple in my home, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a moment of warmth shared with loved ones.
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
25 mins
15 mins
Easy
320 kcal
20 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
15 g
Chef’s Knife, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Saucepan, Peeler, Cutting Board
The Magic of This Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup
Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of Italian sausage and fresh vegetables in this Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup creates a delightful harmony. The spice from the sausage enhances the sweetness of carrots and zucchini, making each spoonful a burst of flavor.
Hearty and Filling
With ingredients like chickpeas and cabbage, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly filling. It’s a dish that leaves you feeling satisfied, which is especially important during the cold winter months.
Comforting and Nourishing
This soup embodies comfort. Whether I’m feeling under the weather or simply craving something cozy, the Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup always delivers. It’s nourishing, warm, and makes your kitchen feel like home.
Easy to Make
Even on the busiest days, whipping up this soup is a breeze. The preparation is simple, and within no time, you’ll have a pot full of deliciousness simmering away.
Versatile Ingredients
You can customize this soup based on what you have on hand. Want to add more greens? Go for it! Craving something spicy? Toss in some red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes it so special.
Great for Leftovers
This soup keeps well, and the flavors only deepen after a day in the refrigerator. Making a big batch means you can enjoy quick meals throughout the week, making it a great recipe for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup
The secret to creating a flavorful Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup lies in the quality and combination of the ingredients. Each component plays a vital role; the Italian sausage provides a savory base, while the vegetables add fresh flavors and texture. Together, they create a balanced and satisfying dish that warms the heart.
- 12 ounces sweet Italian sausage: This is the star of the show, providing a rich and savory flavor that forms the soup’s base.
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor, making the soup more aromatic.
- One 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and color, enhancing the overall taste and presentation of the soup.
- One 15.5-ounce can garbanzo beans (chickpeas), rinsed & drained: Adds protein and a creamy texture, making the soup more filling.
- One 14.5-ounce can beef broth: Provides a robust flavor, enhancing the soup’s heartiness.
- 4 cups water: Helps create the soup base, balancing the flavors of the ingredients.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage: Adds crunch and a slight sweetness, making the soup more nutritious.
- 2 large carrots, peeled & chopped: Provides sweetness and color, enriching the soup’s flavor profile.
- 1 large zucchini, chopped: Offers a fresh taste and complements the other vegetables beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor, giving it that comforting Italian touch.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing the flavors and bringing out the natural taste of the ingredients.
Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup Instructions
Making Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious dish.
In a large soup pot, cook the Italian sausage and onion over medium heat until the sausage is no longer pink. You’ll know it’s ready when the sausage starts to brown slightly and the onion becomes translucent. Make sure to break the sausage into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Drain off any accumulated fat. This helps to keep the soup from becoming greasy. I like to dab the bottom of the pot with paper towels to soak up as much fat as possible.
Stir in all of the remaining ingredients: the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, beef broth, water, cabbage, carrots, zucchini, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix well to ensure that everything is evenly combined.
Bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll notice the soup starting to bubble and the wonderful aroma filling the air. This is when the flavors begin to meld together beautifully.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. This helps the vegetables cook thoroughly while preserving the vibrant colors.
Cook for about 10 minutes or until the carrots and zucchini are tender. You’ll want to stir occasionally, keeping an eye on the texture of the vegetables.
Once cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or even a dash of pepper for a little kick if you prefer.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, making tomorrow’s meal even better!
Things Worth Knowing
- Using a good quality Italian sausage can drastically change the flavor profile of your soup.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what you have. Other great additions could be bell peppers or spinach.
- Simmering the soup longer can enhance the flavors even more, so don’t hesitate to let it cook for a bit longer.
- For a thicker soup, consider adding a few more chickpeas or even blending a portion of the soup and returning it to the pot.
Recipe Variations about Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup
The beauty of Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup lies in its versatility. You can make a few changes to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Storage: To store leftovers, place the soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to three months. Just ensure it’s cooled before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
- Pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad.
- Spicy Version: If you like heat, adding some crushed red pepper flakes will give you that spice kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version.
- Herbs Variation: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley as a garnish for an added flavor boost.
- Additional Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
What to Pair With Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup
Serving Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here are some great ideas on what to pair with this delicious dish:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup. It complements the flavors beautifully.
- Side Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the hearty flavors of the soup.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: For a comforting touch, serve some cheesy garlic bread on the side.
- Occasions: This soup is perfect for winter dinners, family gatherings, or cozy evenings in.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for easy reheating.
- Seasonal Pairings: This soup is best enjoyed during the winter months when warm, hearty meals are most comforting.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and nourishment. It’s the perfect recipe for cozy evenings when you want something hearty and fulfilling. I encourage you to try this recipe; your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you. Gather your loved ones, serve it warm, and enjoy every spoonful together.
Italian Sausage Vegetable Soup
Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Saucepan
- Peeler
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Sweet Italian Sausage
- 1 medium Sweet Onion, chopped
- 14.5 ounce Diced Tomatoes
- 15.5 ounce Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas), rinsed & drained
- 14.5 ounce Beef Broth
- 4 cups Water
- 2 cups Shredded Cabbage
- 2 large Carrots, peeled & chopped
- 1 large Zucchini, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, cook the Italian sausage and onion over medium heat until the sausage is no longer pink. Drain off any accumulated fat.
- Stir in all of the remaining ingredients: the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, beef broth, water, cabbage, carrots, zucchini, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the carrots and zucchini are tender.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Tip 1: Ensure to use gluten-free brands of chickpeas and beef broth if preparing this recipe as gluten-free.
