When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming appeal of a classic soup. Among the many options, Italian Sausage Soup stands out as a savory and satisfying choice that combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. This soup isn’t just about nourishment; it’s about enjoying a bowlful of deliciousness that tells a story of tradition and home-cooked goodness.
Whether you’re gathering with family for a cozy dinner or preparing a meal to enjoy throughout the week, this Italian Sausage Soup delivers a blend of hearty sausage, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices that will make every spoonful a delight. Perfect for any time of year, this soup brings a taste of Italy right to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (bulk, or casings removed)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or orzo)
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- Brown the Sausage: Begin by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook until the sausage is well-browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a bowl, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate the diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers into the pot. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Build the Soup Base: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well, ensuring any bits of sausage and vegetables stuck to the bottom of the pot are scraped up. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling soup. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it is tender but still al dente.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta is cooked, return the browned sausage to the pot. Add the sliced zucchini, green beans, and frozen peas (if using). Stir to combine, allowing the soup to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well melded.
- Season and Add Greens: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Add the dried basil, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the greens are wilted and the flavors are well integrated.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a good mix of sausage, pasta, and vegetables. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately, ideally with a side of crusty Italian bread for dipping.
Conclusion:
This Rustic Italian Sausage Soup is a testament to the joys of home cooking, offering a robust and comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. The combination of savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta makes each bowl a delightful experience. The addition of aromatic herbs and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes (if desired) adds layers of flavor that elevate the soup from a simple meal to a gourmet treat.
Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or enjoying a hearty dinner with loved ones, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Embrace the flavors of Italy and savor the comfort of a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
Source of the picture : smalltownwoman
