Italian sausage and kale soup
This Italian sausage and kale soup combines hearty sausage with nutritious kale and cauliflower for a comforting dish. A rich broth seasoned with garlic and red pepper brings robust flavor, perfect for any time of year.
Cook time 50 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
2 cups chicken broth4 cups water
1/2 onion
16 oz italian sausage
3 cups kale
2 cups cauliflower
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp heavy whipping cream
1 tsp red pepper (spice)
1/4 cup butter
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
Zuppa Toscana, a traditional Italian soup, is beloved for its robust flavors and healthy ingredients. Combining the heartiness of Italian sausage with the nutritious benefits of kale and cauliflower, this recipe offers a delicious and comforting meal perfect for any time of the year.
Instructions:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Remove the stems from the kale and chop the leaves.
- Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Add the finely chopped onion to the pot with the sausage drippings.
- Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth and 4 cups of water.
- Stir to combine and bring the liquid to a gentle boil.
- Add the chopped kale and cauliflower florets to the pot.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the vegetables cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot.
- Add the crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of salt, and a dash of black pepper.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the 1 tablespoon of heavy whipping cream to the pot.
- Stir well and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
This Italian Sausage and Kale Zuppa Toscana Soup is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a wholesome meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Its harmonious flavors and comforting warmth make it an ideal choice for a hearty lunch or dinner. Enjoy the rich textures and flavors knowing that it’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Italian sausage and kale soup FAQ:
After adding the kale and cauliflower, you should simmer the soup for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Yes, you can substitute Italian sausage with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Adjust the seasoning if using a less seasoned variety.
Use a large pot or Dutch oven that holds at least 6 quarts to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for simmering without overflow.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Yes, you can omit the heavy whipping cream. For creaminess, consider substituting with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Tips:
- Use high-quality Italian sausage: Opt for fresh Italian sausage from a reputable butcher to enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onions, kale, and cauliflower ahead of time to make the cooking process smoother.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding extra red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Creamy texture: For a richer texture, you can increase the amount of heavy whipping cream or blend a portion of the soup before adding it back in.
- Serve with crusty bread: Pair the soup with a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
Nutrition per serving
6 ServingsCalories 350kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 2.31g
Sugar 2.91g
Fat 30g
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