Italian Vegetable Soup

Italian Vegetable Soup is a delightful blend of hearty vegetables and rich flavors that warms the soul. This soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. With its quick preparation time and simple ingredients, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of Italian goodness in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be made in a slow cooker, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for those busy days.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with vibrant vegetables and herbs, each spoonful delivers a burst of Italian flavor.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with beans and veggies, this dish is not only delicious but also good for you.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker; either way, you’ll get fantastic results.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it later without any hassle.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Make sure you’re equipped with the following items before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large stockpot
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large stockpot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly and allows for larger batches.
• Chopping knife: A sharp knife makes prepping vegetables quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts, crucial for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Beans

• ½ medium onion (chopped)
• 8-oz sliced fresh mushrooms
• 1 (16-oz) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (16-oz) can Italian green beans, drained
• 1 carrot (peeled and chopped)
• 1 zucchini (chopped)

Tomato Base

• 2 (14.5-oz) cans diced Italian tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (10.5-oz) can tomato soup, undiluted

Broth and Seasonings

• 5 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2½ tsp dried basil
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 tsp chili powder

Protein Source

• 1¼ lb chicken sausage (removed from casings)

Pasta

• 8-oz rotini pasta noodles (uncooked)

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage Mixture

In a Dutch oven or large stockpot, cook the chicken sausage along with the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms over medium heat until the sausage is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat after cooking.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine the Tomato Base

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato soup, water or broth, dried basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

Add in kidney beans, green beans, chopped carrot, chopped zucchini, and uncooked rotini pasta into the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 6: Final Simmer

Continue to simmer on low heat for another 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Enjoy your warm bowl of Italian Vegetable Soup!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup

Italian Vegetable Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth of the soup. Choose a baguette or sourdough for added texture.

Add a Sprinkle of Parmesan

• For a touch of creaminess and flavor, top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It complements the vegetables beautifully.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh basil or parsley to enhance its aroma and add a pop of color. This simple addition makes a big difference.

Accompany with a Side Salad

• A light side salad, such as a mixed greens salad, pairs well with the hearty soup. Drizzle with vinaigrette for extra zing.

Enjoy with Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• For a classic combination, serve your Italian Vegetable Soup alongside grilled cheese sandwiches. The gooey, melted cheese balances the soup’s flavors perfectly.

How to Perfect Italian Vegetable Soup

To take your Italian Vegetable Soup to the next level, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your soup is bursting with flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh ingredients greatly enhance the taste and nutritional value of your soup. Opt for seasonal vegetables when possible.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! If you find it needs more depth, add additional herbs or spices according to your preference.
• Incorporate Different Beans: Experimenting with various beans can add unique textures and flavors to your soup. Chickpeas or cannellini beans work great as alternatives.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor: Allowing your soup to simmer longer will deepen the flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
• Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding back any chunky ingredients like vegetables and pasta.
• Store Properly: Leftovers are great! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Vegetable Soup

Italian Vegetable Soup makes a delicious main course but can be even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this classic side is perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil make this salad refreshing and vibrant alongside the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with the soup’s taste profile.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice and herbs bring an extra layer of flavor and nutrition to your meal.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a wonderfully comforting side that complements the soup’s richness.
6. Olive Tapenade Crostini: Spread this savory tapenade on toasted bread for a flavorful bite that enhances your dining experience.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs provides protein and texture while balancing out the meal.
8. Pesto Pasta: Tossed in fresh pesto sauce, this pasta side dish adds another layer of Italian flair to your dining table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Vegetable Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Incorrect seasoning: Not using enough herbs and spices can lead to a bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust seasonings like basil and oregano accordingly.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Add them at the right time and cook just until tender for the best texture.
• Skipping the sauté: Failing to sauté the onions and garlic before adding other ingredients can result in less flavor. Take a few extra minutes to sauté these aromatics for a richer taste.
• Adding pasta too early: Putting pasta in during the initial cooking phase may lead to overcooked noodles. Add pasta towards the end of cooking for perfect al dente texture.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Opting for canned or frozen vegetables instead of fresh can reduce flavor quality. Whenever possible, use fresh produce to enhance your soup’s taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Italian Vegetable Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Vegetable Soup

• Freeze in individual portions or one large container.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Vegetable Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Vegetable Soup.

What vegetables are best for Italian Vegetable Soup?

You can use a variety of vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, green beans, and bell peppers. Feel free to customize based on seasonal availability.

Can I make Italian Vegetable Soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day. Prepare it ahead of time and store it properly as mentioned above.

How do I make Italian Vegetable Soup vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat or sausage and substitute with more beans or protein-rich vegetables like spinach or chickpeas for added nutrition.

What is the best way to serve Italian Vegetable Soup?

Serve it hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. A drizzle of olive oil enhances its flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Italian Vegetable Soup is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it suitable for various diets. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious bowl of homemade goodness!

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Italian Vegetable Soup

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Italian Vegetable Soup, a delightful medley of fresh vegetables and hearty flavors that is perfect for any occasion. This wholesome soup is not only quick to prepare in just 30 minutes but also versatile enough to be made in a slow cooker, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Each spoonful bursts with vibrant ingredients, delivering a nourishing dish that’s both satisfying and healthy—loaded with beans and seasonal veggies. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy family dinner or serving it at a gathering with friends, this Italian classic will surely warm your soul.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ½ medium onion (chopped)
• 8-oz sliced fresh mushrooms
• 1 (16-oz) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (16-oz) can Italian green beans, drained
• 1 carrot (peeled and chopped)
• 1 zucchini (chopped)
• 2 (14.5-oz) cans diced Italian tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (10.5-oz) can tomato soup, undiluted
• 5 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2½ tsp dried basil
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1¼ lb chicken sausage (removed from casings)
• 8-oz rotini pasta noodles (uncooked)

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Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven or large stockpot, cook chicken sausage with chopped onion and mushrooms over medium heat until the sausage is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato soup, vegetable broth, dried herbs, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Add kidney beans, green beans, carrot, zucchini, and uncooked rotini pasta; stir well.
6. Simmer for another 15 minutes or until pasta is cooked and vegetables are tender.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 55mg