Warm up with a bowl of Hearty Zucchini Tomato Italian Sausage Soup, a nutritious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep. This soup combines lean Italian sausage with fresh zucchini, bell peppers, and leafy greens, all simmered in a savory tomato broth infused with Italian herbs. It’s a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and healthy, packed with vegetables and protein. Whether you’re looking for a comforting lunch or a light dinner, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (turkey or chicken for a leaner option), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of chopped tomatoes in their own juice
- 4 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock1 cup baby spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and Italian sausage. Sauté the sausage, using a spoon to crumble it as it cooks, until it turns a rich brown and is thoroughly cooked. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and turns clear, and the garlic releases its aroma. its aroma.
- Add the Zucchini and Bell Pepper: Add the diced zucchini and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for another 5 minutes, until they begin to soften. This step helps build the flavor base of the soupTop of Form
- Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juice. Stir to combine, then add the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and basil.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Add the Greens: Stir in the chopped baby spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The seasoning can be adjusted according to your taste preferences.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot, with a side of crusty bread if you like, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Zucchini Tomato Italian Sausage Soup is a delicious and nourishing meal that’s perfect for any season. The combination of lean Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs makes for a soup that’s not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this soup is great for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and you’ll have a dish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.