Description
This hearty and flavorful zucchini tomato Italian sausage soup is packed with fresh vegetables, lean Italian sausage, and savory herbs. It’s a healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. With its vibrant flavors and simple ingredients, this soup is both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté the Veggies: Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot with the sausage. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the zucchini, carrots, celery, red bell pepper, basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Finish with Spinach: If using spinach, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking until wilted.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and top with grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, use lean turkey or chicken sausage.
- Add more vegetables like green beans or kale for extra nutrition.
- This soup freezes well—perfect for meal prep!