Picture this: a cozy evening, the kind where you just want to wrap yourself in a blanket and savor something warm and hearty. This Easy Zuppa Toscana is like a hug in a bowl—rich and comforting. Ever since I stumbled upon it after a chilly morning walk, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, with its creamy broth and spicy sausage, perfect for those days when you just need a little extra warmth.
Steps
- In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes until it browns. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate.
- Using the same pot, melt the butter and sauté the diced onions until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, water, and add the diced potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream; then return the cooked sausage to the pot. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the soup hot, optionally garnishing with grated parmesan cheese and chopped bacon or bacon bits.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy Italian ground sausage (use mild for a kid-friendly version)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ white onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 4-5 yellow potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups chopped kale
- Optional toppings: chopped bacon or bacon bits, grated parmesan cheese
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3332 kcal | Carbohydrates: 64 g | Protein: 100 g | Fat: 304 g | Saturated Fat: 152 g | Trans Fat: 4 g | Cholesterol: 984 mg | Sodium: 15396 mg | Potassium: 4336 mg | Fiber: 4 g | Sugar: 8 g | Vitamin A: 34252 IU | Vitamin C: 440 mg | Calcium: 964 mg | Iron: 12 mg
FAQ
- What is Zuppa Toscana?
- Zuppa Toscana, meaning “Tuscan soup” in Italian, is a hearty soup traditionally made with vegetables, beans, potatoes, olive oil, spices, Italian bacon, and Tuscan bread. The American version often includes Italian sausage, bacon, garlic, heavy cream, potatoes, and kale, making it a filling meal.
- Is Zuppa Toscana a healthy choice?
- Zuppa Toscana contains nutritious ingredients like kale, potatoes, onions, and garlic, which are rich in essential vitamins and minerals. However, it also includes ingredients like sausage and heavy cream, which are high in saturated fat. Healthier alternatives include using leaner meats such as chicken or turkey sausage and replacing heavy cream with fat-free half-and-half or plant-based milk, though this may alter the soup’s richness.
- Can Zuppa Toscana be frozen for later use?
- Yes, you can freeze Zuppa Toscana for up to two to three weeks. While the kale might brown and the potatoes may change color, the taste remains largely unaffected. It’s best enjoyed soon after preparation, as the texture of the potatoes may become mushy after freezing.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with Zuppa Toscana?
- Zuppa Toscana pairs well with a variety of sides, such as a crusty baguette for dipping, a simple side salad or Tomato Cucumber Salad, Lemon Parmesan Roasted Asparagus for an extra dose of vegetables, or rolls for a hearty accompaniment. Oyster crackers are also a popular choice.
- What variations can be made to the Zuppa Toscana recipe?
- For a milder version, use mild Italian sausage instead of spicy. You can also adjust the richness by substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter plant-based milk. Additionally, adding ingredients like brown sugar bacon or using a combination of mild and hot sausages can customize the flavor to your preference.
Tips
- Substitute for a Healthier Option: To make a lighter version of this soup, consider using leaner Italian sausage, like chicken or turkey sausage. Additionally, you can replace the heavy cream with fat-free half-and-half or a plant-based milk such as coconut for a lower-fat alternative, though this may result in a less rich texture.
- Freezing Tips: If you plan to freeze the soup, consume it within two to three weeks for the best taste and texture. Keep in mind that the kale may discolor and the potatoes can become mushy upon reheating, so it’s ideal to enjoy it soon after making.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding brown sugar bacon as a topping. This can complement the savory elements of the soup while providing a touch of sweetness.
- Side Pairings: Serve the Zuppa Toscana with a crusty baguette for dipping or a simple side salad to make the meal more complete. If you’re looking for a vegetable side, Lemon Parmesan Roasted Asparagus is a great choice to add some extra nutrition.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven – Essential for making soups and stews.
- Slotted spoon – Useful for removing the sausage from the pot while leaving the fat behind.
- Garlic press (if not mincing garlic by hand) – Handy for quickly mincing garlic.
- Ladle – Useful for serving the soup.
