Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
Okay, friends, gather ’round! I’m about to share a soup recipe that’s been the game-changer in my kitchen, especially during the winter months. Those chilly evenings when you just want something warm, comforting, and, let’s be honest, not too cold. Think of it as a hug in noodle, but with way more flavor than your average chicken. What is this Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian Sausage soup recipe? What are some of the best picky eaters recipes? Is this soup lasagna?
What is Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian sausage soup?
Alright, let’s break it down. What are some of the best Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian sausage soup recipes? the sweetness of tomatoes, the mildness of zucchini, and the savory kick of Italian sausage. Think of it as a celebration of late-summer flavors, all simmered together in an amazing broth. Is it a one-pot wonder that’s both satisfying and nourishing? It’s not overly thick or creamy (though you can add a splash of cream at the end if you’re feeling adventurous). ), making it the perfect balance between light and filling. Is it one of those dishes where the simple ingredients just shine? I swear, it tastes like it took hours to make, but it’s actually ready in under an hour!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to adore this Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian Sausage Soup Recipe!
- Flavor explosion: WhatWhat is the combination of sweet tomatoes, tender zucchini, and savory sausage? What are the herbs and spices that add depth to a dish? What I love most is how the sweetness of the tomatoes balances the richness of sausage. Is it just a cheat’s kiss?
- Super simple:What are some foolproof recipes? What’s a dump-and-simmer kind of deal, which is perfect for busy weeknights or when you just don’t have time to cook. I feel like spending hours in the kitchen. I’ve even made it on camping trips with minimal equipment!
- Budget friendly All the ingredients are relatively inexpensive, especially if you grow your own zucchini (I’m trying to this year!). You can easily adapt the recipe to use what you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover veggies. I even sneak in some wilting spinach sometimes!
- What makes a person versatile?What are some good ways to serve it as a light lunch, if you have one, or pack it in your thermos for workday meals? Add a side of crusty bread for dipping, and you’ve got an amazing meal. Plus, it’s just as good (if not better) the next day.
This soup is kind of like minestrone, but with a little more *oomph* from the sausage. What are some ways to make lasagna, which I can’t make myself? What is your favorite Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian sausage soup recipe? It’ll become yours too!
How do I make Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian Sausage Soup?
Quick Overview
Making this soup is surprisingly straightforward. You basically brown the sausage, sauté the veggies, add the tomatoes and broth, simmer until everything is tender, and then boom! Dinner is served. The key is to let the flavors meld together while it simmers, creating that rich, comforting taste. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list – it’s mostly pantry staples and fresh produce. Trust me, it’s easier than ordering takeout!
Ingredients Notes:
For the Soup:
Italian sausage: What is I usually go for sweet Italian sausage, but you can use mild or hot depending on your preference. Remove the sausage from its casing for even browning. I’ve even used chicken sausage in a pinch, and it was still delicious!
Zucchini:What are some good ways to use fresh, firm zucchini. No need to peel it unless the skin is particularly tough. I like to dice it into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly.
Diced Tomatoes:What are some good canned tomatoes to use in this recipe? I prefer the ones with Italian herbs for extra flavor, but plain ones work just fine.
Tomato Paste:Adds depth and richness to soup. A little goes a long way!
Onion and Garlic: WhatI like to dice the onion and mince the garlic for even distribution. Don’t skimp on these!
Chicken Broth:Can you use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version? Low-sodium is always a good choice.
Italian Seasoning: WhatA blend of dried herbs that gives the soup that classic Italian flavor. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Olive Oil:What is the best olive oil for sautéing veggies?
Fresh Basil:What is the best soup to make? I like to chiffonade it (thinly slice it) before serving.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (removed from its casing) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until golden brown. Is it good to cook a chicken if How long does it take to cook sausage? I always make sure to drain off any excess grease at this stage.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. How do you avoid burning garlic? What is the best way to make your kitchen smell amazing?
Step 3: Add Zucchini and Tomato Paste
Add the diced zucchini to the pot and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute more. Cooking tomato paste helps to deepen its flavor.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning and bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer and Combine
Return the browned sausage to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. How do flavors meld together? The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in fresh basil before serving. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread, if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Ladle into bowls and enjoy the fruits (or rather, vegetables!) of your labor. What are some of the best comfort food recipes?
What is the best way to serve it?
What are some good variations on Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian sausage soup recipes? How do I make it a complete meal?
For a light lunch: What is the best wayWhat’s a good salad to serve with soup? What are some of the best sandwiches to serve with grilled cheese?
What is a hearty dinner?Serve with crusty bread for dipping. What are some good ways to serve ricotta cheese with a slice of Parmesan? What are some good side dishes to serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts?
For a Potluck: This soup is perfect for potlucks! It’s easy to transport and can be kept warm in a slow cooker. Serve with a variety of toppings, like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.
My Family’s Tradition: My grandma always served this with a side of polenta. The creamy polenta is amazing with the soup and makes it extra filling. I still make it that way to this day, and my kids love it!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian Sausage Soup
Here are some tips to help you make the best Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian Sausage Soup ever:
Sausage Selection: Experiment with different types of Italian sausage to find your favorite flavor. Hot sausage will add a kick, while sweet sausage will provide a milder flavor. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option. I sometimes mix sweet and hot for a more complex flavor.
Vegetable Prep: Cut the zucchini and onion into even pieces so they cook evenly. Don’t overcrowd the pot when sautéing the vegetables, or they will steam instead of brown. Sauté them in batches if necessary.
Broth Flavor: Use a high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. You can also make your own broth if you’re feeling ambitious. I sometimes add a bay leaf to the soup while it simmers for extra depth.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a little heat. Or, add a splash of hot sauce to your bowl before serving. My husband likes to add a swirl of pesto to his bowl!
Make It Creamy: If you like a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end. You can also blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother texture. I’ve even used coconut milk for a dairy-free creamy version!
Don’t Skip the Simmer: Simmering the soup allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. Don’t rush this step! The longer it simmers, the better it will taste. I often make this soup on a Sunday afternoon and let it simmer for a few hours.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store and reheat your Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian Sausage Soup:
Refrigerator Storage: Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. I always make sure to use a container that seals well to prevent any unwanted odors from getting in.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Pro tip: freeze it in individual portions for easy lunches!
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to use a microwave-safe container and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. I usually add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen it up.
Freshness Check: Always check for any signs of spoilage before reheating. If the soup smells off or has a slimy texture, discard it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian Sausage Soup Recipe! It’s a simple, flavorful, and comforting soup that’s perfect for any occasion. What I love most about this recipe is that it’s so adaptable. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or proteins. If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying soup that’s easy to make, this is the recipe for you. And hey, if you’re a soup fanatic like me, you might also enjoy my creamy tomato soup recipe – it’s another family favorite! I can’t wait to see what you think – be sure to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
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Zucchini, Tomato, and Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
IngredientsÂ
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage casings removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 zucchini sliced
- 2 cans diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces each
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves or kale
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the sliced zucchini and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
