Introduction
Minestrone soup is a hearty Italian classic, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. This version features spicy sausage, which adds a delightful kick to the traditional recipe. Packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta, this minestrone is not only comforting but also nutritious, making it perfect for any day of the week.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Sausage: 8 ounces of spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Carrot: 1 medium, diced
Celery: 1 stalk, diced
Onion: 1 medium, diced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Zucchini: 1 medium, diced
Green beans: 1 cup, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
Canned diced tomatoes: 14-ounce can, with juices
Vegetable broth: 4 cups
Water: 2 cups
Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Cannellini beans: 15-ounce can, drained and rinsed
Small pasta (like ditalini or elbows): 1 cup
Fresh spinach or kale: 2 cups, chopped
Parmesan cheese: for serving (optional)
Prep Time
The prep time for this minestrone soup is approximately 15 minutes. During this time, you will chop and prepare all the ingredients, ensuring a smooth cooking process.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The total time for this recipe comes to about 45 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this spicy sausage minestrone soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced spicy sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Break apart the sausage with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Stir and cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs
Stir in minced garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and oregano. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes
Add canned diced tomatoes to the pot along with their juices. Stir everything together.
Step 5: Add Broth and Beans
Pour in vegetable or chicken broth and add drained beans. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 6: Add Pasta and Simmer
Once boiling, add the pasta to the pot. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes.
Step 7: Stir in Greens
Add chopped kale or spinach to the soup, cooking until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 8: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Variations
Feel free to substitute different beans or add a variety of vegetables based on your preference.
Note 2: Sausage Type
Choose your favorite spicy sausage; Italian sausage works well for this recipe.
Note 3: Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The soup can also be frozen for longer storage.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, the onions, garlic, and sausage are sautéed to build a flavorful base for the soup.
Simmering
Simmering is cooking food gently in liquid just below the boiling point. It allows flavors to meld while keeping ingredients intact. The minestrone soup is simmered to ensure the vegetables are tender and the flavors combine.
Chopping
Chopping is the process of cutting food into smaller pieces. In this recipe, vegetables need to be chopped into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and to make the soup easier to eat.
Seasoning
Seasoning involves adding salt, herbs, and spices to enhance the flavor of a dish. In this soup, herbs like thyme and parsley are added for flavor, while salt helps to bring out the natural tastes of the ingredients.
Building Layers of Flavor
Building layers of flavor means adding ingredients in stages to develop depth in a dish. This is achieved in the soup by first sautéing the sausage and vegetables before adding the broth and other components.
FAQ
Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute different types of sausage, such as chicken or turkey sausage, based on your preference or dietary needs.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, like zucchini, green beans, or mushrooms, to customize the soup to your liking.
How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
You can make the soup vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth. For a vegan version, ensure that all ingredients used, including any cheeses, are plant-based.
How long does this minestrone soup last in the fridge?
The minestrone soup can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze minestrone soup?
Yes, you can freeze minestrone soup. It is best to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
Conclusion
Minestrone soup with spicy sausage is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines a variety of vegetables, beans, and aromatic spices. This comforting soup is perfect for any season and can be easily adapted to suit your personal taste. By using fresh ingredients and adjusting the spice levels, you can create a minestrone that is both satisfying and enjoyable.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Minestrone
Swap out the spicy sausage for additional vegetables and beans to create a delicious vegetarian version of minestrone.
Chickpea and Spinach Soup
Incorporate chickpeas and fresh spinach for a boost of protein and greens, enhancing the nutritional value of the soup.
Italian Sausage and Lentil Soup
Replace the spicy sausage with Italian sausage and mix in lentils for a twist on the classic recipe that packs a hearty punch.
Noodle Minestrone
Add small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni to the soup for a filling noodle version that kids will love.
Mexican-Inspired Minestrone
Introduce taco seasoning and black beans along with corn for a minestrone with a southwestern flair.
Seasonal Variations
Change up the vegetables based on the season; use summer squash in the summer or root vegetables in the winter for a fresh take throughout the year.