Embark on a culinary journey to Italy with our Zuppa Toscana Soup recipe, a rustic and hearty delight! Sauté spicy Italian sausage until it’s perfectly browned, releasing bursts of flavor with each sizzle. Swirl in onions and garlic, creating a fragrant base that sings of Tuscany. Pour in a rich broth and chunks of tender potatoes, simmering until everything melds together harmoniously. Stir in kale for a pop of color and finish with a splash of cream. Buon appetito—a Tuscan hug in a bowl awaits!
Discover the rustic heart of Italy with Zuppa Toscana Soup recipe – a treasury of authentic regional flavors that comforts your palate. Each spoonful brims with earthy vegetables, hearty beans, and succulent Italian sausage, nestled in a brothy embrace.
Picture yourself in a Tuscan farmhouse, entranced by a simmering pot that unveils an irresistible aroma. This soup does not just satiate hunger; it transports you to olive groves and vineyard-dotted hillsides.
Indulge in a culinary journey as this Tuscan delight mirrors the simplicity and richness of the Italian countryside. Trust us; you’ll be saying “delizioso” with every mouthful. Find tradition, warmth, and gourmet satisfaction in a bowl of Toscana Soup.
With this enticing recipe, you’re not just savoring a meal – you’re savoring an experience and living’ la dolce vita’ in every sense. Let Toscana Soup whisk you away to the Italian heartland, one flavorful bite at a time.
What Is Zuppa Toscana Soup?
Toscana Soup is a classic Italian soup that embodies the flavors of the Tuscan region. It’s bathed in a flavorful chicken broth. This soup is renowned for its harmonious blend of simple ingredients packed with ingredients like hearty potatoes, robust Italian sausage, creamy cannellini beans, and fresh kale.
A steaming bowl of Toscana Soup provides a warming, wholesome experience that encapsulates the essence of rustic Italian cuisine. It’s a taste of Tuscany delivered straight to your table.
Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?
Absolutely, the beauty of Toscana Soup is its flexibility to cater to various dietary needs:
- Keto Replace the potatoes with low-carb alternatives like cauliflower or radishes. Opt for full-fat broth and sausage to increase the fat content.
- Paleo Stick to high-quality organic Italian sausage and chicken broth. Skip the beans as they are not paleo-friendly.
- Gluten-Free The traditional Toscana Soup is naturally gluten-free as it excludes wheat-based ingredients.
- Whole30 Use Whole30-compliant sausage and chicken broth, and omit the beans to make it suitable for this diet.
- Vegetarian Substitute Italian sausage with mushrooms or a plant-based sausage. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Vegan Replace the sausage with a vegan protein source like chickpeas or lentils, and use vegetable broth. Replace the traditional Parmesan garnish with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Recipe Directions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and prepare for a culinary journey.
- Place the delectable sausage links on a baking sheet, basking in the oven’s gentle heat for 25 minutes until they achieve a mouthwatering golden hue.
- Once baked to perfection, slice the sausages into tantalizing 1/2-inch pieces.
- In a large saucepan, embark on a fragrant adventure by heating the oil, then sautéing the onions until they become translucent and release their delightful aroma.
- Add the garlic, infusing the air with its rich essence.
- Pour in the savory broth, water, and tender potatoes, letting them simmer in a harmonious blend for 15 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld together and create a symphony of taste.
- As the aromatic concoction gently simmers, it’s time to reintroduce the sliced sausage links—alongside the vibrant kale and creamy indulgence of cream.
- Finally, the moment you’ve been waiting for—serve the steaming hot creation in bowls, delighting in the enticing aroma that wafts through the air.
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Swap Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist.
- Transform it into a seafood delight with shrimp or clams.
- For extra creaminess, add cannellini beans.
- Swap kale with other leafy greens such as spinach or Swiss chard.
Add-Ons
- Spice lovers can introduce heat with red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- A spoonful of pesto can add a gourmet touch.
- A splash of white wine adds depth and complexity.
- Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
Toppings
- A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the rich flavor.
- A drizzle of quality extra-virgin olive oil gives a glossy finish and additional depth.
- Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of spice.
- Freshly chopped basil or parsley can provide a vibrant, refreshing contrast.
Can I Make The Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Absolutely, you can adapt the Toscana Soup recipe for both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. Here’s a brief guide on how to do it:
Slow Cooker
- Start by baking the sausage in the oven, as per your recipe, then slice it.
- In a skillet, sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the cooked sausage, potatoes, and broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the kale and cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from breaking down too much.
Instant Pot
- Use the ‘Sauté’ function on the Instant Pot to cook the sausages (instead of baking), then slice them.
- Add onions to the pot and sauté until translucent. Add garlic, and cook for another minute.
- Add the broth, water, and potatoes. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing,’ and cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 5-10 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release the remaining pressure.
- Open the lid, set the pot to ‘Sauté’ mode again, add the sausage, kale, and cream, and let it simmer until heated.
Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?
Both store-bought and homemade broths can make Toscana Soup, each offering advantages.
Store-Bought Broth
- This is a convenient option, particularly if you’re short on time. Opt for low-sodium versions to control the salt level in your soup. Organic and high-quality broths often have a more robust flavor. Read labels carefully to ensure there are no unwanted additives or allergens.
Homemade Broth
- This gives you maximum control over your soup’s taste, consistency, and nutritional content. Homemade broth is often richer and deeper in flavor, and you can adjust the seasoning to your liking. It requires more time and planning, but if you make it in large batches, it can be frozen for future use.
How To Serve?
Toscana Soup shines when served hot, straight from the stovetop. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your soup-serving experience:
- Bread: A slice of crusty Italian bread or a warm baguette on the side is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Salad: A fresh, crisp salad can provide a nice contrast to the hearty soup. Try a simple mixed greens salad or a tangy Caesar salad for a classic combination.
- Toppings: Top the soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, or freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Drink Pairing: A glass of white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Vermentino, can complement the soup wonderfully. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
- Presentation: Serve in deep bowls to keep it warm for longer. Garnish with a fresh basil or parsley sprig for a pop of color and freshness.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Italian Bread or Garlic Bread: The crisp crust and soft interior of Italian bread perfectly contrast the creamy soup. For added flavor, opt for garlic bread or even cheesy garlic bread.
- Bruschetta: A fresh tomato and basil bruschetta can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty soup.
- Caprese Salad: The combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze creates a light side dish that pairs beautifully with Toscana Soup.
- Grilled Vegetables: A variety of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, would make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of Italian cold cuts, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables can offer an array of flavors and textures to complement the soup.
- Roasted Rosemary Potatoes: If you prefer a heartier side, roasted potatoes with rosemary can further enhance the earthy flavors of the Toscana Soup.
Storage And Make Ahead
- Storage: After cooking, let the soup cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Make Ahead: Zuppa Toscana soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to thin it out if needed.
What Can We Do With Leftovers?
- Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup on the stove to thicken it and use it as a delicious sauce for your favorite pasta.
- Stuffed Peppers: Pour the soup over halved bell peppers and bake until the peppers are tender. Top with cheese for added flavor.
- Baked Casserole: Mix the soup with cooked rice or pasta, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Pie Filling: Use it for a homemade pot pie as a savory filling. Top with a pastry crust and bake until golden.
- Frittata Mix-In: Stir the soup into beaten eggs and bake to make a hearty frittata.
- Grains Cooker: Cook quinoa or rice in the soup to infuse them with flavor.
TIPS
- Use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick, or mild sausage for a milder flavor.
- For a healthier option, use turkey sausage instead of pork.
- Add a splash of white wine while cooking for added depth of flavor.
- Use fresh kale and chop it into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
- To make it extra creamy, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for a finishing touch.
- Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe Made Easy – Follow These Steps
Course: Soup Recipe6
servings10
minutes45
minutes350
kcalToscana Soup, also known as Zuppa Toscana, is a popular Italian-American soup named after Tuscany, a region in central Italy. This creamy, hearty soup combines Italian sausage, potatoes, and kale, cooked in a savory broth often enriched with heavy cream.
Ingredients
3 Pounds 3 Ground Beef
1/2 Cup 1/2 Chopped Onion
2 2 Potatoes, Cubed
4 4 Kidney Beans (15 Oz Cans)
4 4 Condensed Tomato Soup (10.75 Oz Cans)
8 Cups 8 Tomato Juice
3 Teaspoons 3 Chili Powder
8 Cups 8 Water
Salt (To Taste)
Step-By-Step Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Arrange the sausage links evenly on a baking sheet. Slide the baking sheet into the oven and let the sausages bake undisturbed for about 25 minutes or until fully cooked.
- Once done, remove the sausages from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, cut them into 1/2-inch thick slices. Set these aside.
- While the sausages are cooling, heat some oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add onions to the heated oil. Saute them until they turn translucent, ensuring they don’t burn.
- Next, add the minced garlic to the onions, and continue to saute for another minute, letting the aroma of the garlic unfold.
- To the saucepan, add the broth, water, and potatoes. Allow the mixture to boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Now reduce the heat to low. Add the sausage slices, kale, and cream to the soup. Continue to simmer the soup until everything is heated through. Stir occasionally to make sure the ingredients are well-distributed.
- Once the soup is heated through, it’s ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls, ensuring each serving has a good mix of sausage, kale, and potatoes.
- Consider a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for added flavor. Enjoy your homemade Toscana Soup hot for the best experience.
- EQUIPMENT LIST
- Ladle
- Peeler
- Colander
- Can Opener
- Cutting Board
- Large Soup Pot
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Blender or Immersion Blender (Optional)
Notes
- Variations: The recipe is very adaptable. For a vegetarian version, you can replace the Italian sausage with other proteins like chicken, turkey, or even tofu. Similarly, spinach or Swiss chard can be used instead of kale.
- Spiciness: Adjust the heat according to your preference. Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes for a spicier soup, or stick with mild sausage for a milder flavor.
- Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. Some recipes use a roux (flour and butter mixture) to thicken the soup instead of cream.
- Potatoes: Traditionally, russet potatoes are used in Toscana Soup. However, you can use any potatoes you have on hand. You can use cauliflower instead of potatoes if you want a lower-carb option.
- Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary based on the size of your vegetable and meat cuts. Make sure the potatoes are tender and the sausage is cooked through before serving.
- Serving: Toscana Soup is best served hot, usually with crusty Italian bread. Some people like to sprinkle extra red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
- Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave. Be aware that the potatoes may become softer after freezing and reheating.
Nutrition Table
