This Healthy Italian Zucchini and Tomato Soup with Sausage is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Packed with the rich flavors of Italian sausage, fresh zucchini, and tomatoes, this soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The combination of vegetables, herbs, and savory sausage creates a hearty meal that’s full of protein and fiber. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome dinner or a make-ahead lunch, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), removed from casings and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, including the liquid
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil (or 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil)
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside, keeping the fat in the pot.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté in the sausage drippings until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes aromatic.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced zucchini, dried basil, and dried oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Return the browned sausage to the pot and stir everything together. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If using fresh herbs instead of dried, stir in the chopped fresh basil and oregano just before serving to preserve their vibrant flavor.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Conclusion
This Healthy Italian Zucchini and Tomato Soup with Sausage is a perfect blend of hearty, flavorful ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal. The combination of spicy or mild Italian sausage, tender zucchini, and robust tomatoes, all simmered in a savory broth, makes this soup both nourishing and delicious. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Garnish with a bit of Parmesan and fresh basil for an extra touch of Italian flair, and enjoy a bowl of warmth and goodness!