A hearty and flavorful soup packed with Italian sausage, zucchini, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables. This soup is easy to make, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, and offers a vibrant taste of Italy.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sweet sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup diced celery
- 2 cups chopped onion
- 2 cups diced red bell pepper (1 large)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Pinch red pepper flakes
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 2 lb zucchini, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 5 plum tomatoes, diced
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 quarts low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Parmesan rind (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- Extra Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium‑high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Aromatics: Mix in the chopped onions, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base: Push the meat–veggie mixture to the sides of the pot (or remove to a bowl if space is tight). Reduce heat to medium. In the center of the pot, stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Main Ingredients: Return meat/veggies to the pot if removed. Stir in the diced tomatoes, zucchini, black pepper, broth, Parmesan rind, grated Parmesan, basil, and thyme. Mix everything well.
Step 5: Simmer: Cover the pot and simmer until the vegetables are soft and tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 6: Serve: Spoon the soup into bowls and top with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy right away!
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and delicious flavor profile.
- Easy to make: This soup requires minimal effort and can be prepared in under an hour.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding other vegetables, beans, or pasta.
- Healthy: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is a nutritious and wholesome meal.
- Great for meal prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a crusty bread for dipping.
- Top with a dollop of ricotta cheese or a swirl of pesto.
- Add a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting combination.
Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, skip the sausage and use white beans and vegetable broth.
- Canned tomatoes can replace fresh—use one 28 oz can diced or crushed.
- Adjust spice level with more or less red pepper flakes.
- If you don’t have Parmesan rind, you can omit it or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Note: Estimated values, will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size)
- Calories: 350-450
- Protein: 25-35g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion:
This Zucchini Tomato Italian Sausage Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its vibrant flavors, wholesome ingredients, and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use different types of sausage? A: Yes, you can use different types of sausage depending on your preference. For a spicier soup, try using hot Italian sausage. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Q2: Can I add pasta to this soup? A: Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo would work well in this soup. Add the pasta during the last 10 minutes of cooking time, or until the pasta is cooked through.
Q3: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q4: What other vegetables can I add to this soup? A: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, spinach, kale, or green beans. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q5: How can I make this soup creamier? A: For a creamier soup, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender and then stir it back into the pot.
