Sausage Kale Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines savory sausage, fresh kale, and wholesome vegetables in a flavorful broth. This soup is perfect for chilly days and is easy to prepare, making it a great option for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 4 cups fresh kale, chopped (stems removed)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Timing

Making Sausage Kale Soup takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Brown Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Carrots and Celery: Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

1. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add Kale

1. Add Kale: Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Sausage Kale Soup (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	300
Protein	20g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	15g
Sugar	3g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or beans for a vegetarian version.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Sausage Kale Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Sausage Kale Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s packed with nutrients and is sure to warm you up on a cold day.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a simple sandwich for a complete meal.