Tuscan Soup Delight is a hearty and flavorful dish inspired by the popular soup from Olive Garden. This creamy, comforting soup features Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth, making it perfect for a cozy meal. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients List

For the Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 medium potatoes (diced)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup kale (chopped, or spinach as an alternative)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (chopped)

Timing

Preparing Tuscan Soup Delight takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add Onions and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
2. Add Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and stir to combine.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasoning

1. Pour in Broth: Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
2. Season: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add Cream and Greens

1. Stir in Cream: Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
2. Add Kale: Stir in the chopped kale (or spinach) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Step 5: Serve

1. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
2. Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Tuscan Soup Delight (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	15g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	20g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Dairy Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute.
• Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Tuscan Soup Delight can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much.

Conclusion

Tuscan Soup Delight is a deliciously creamy and satisfying soup that brings the flavors of Tuscany to your table. Perfect for a hearty meal, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a taste of Olive Garden at home!

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the soup?

While you can freeze the soup, it’s best to freeze it without the cream, as it may separate upon thawing. Add the cream when reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a classic Italian antipasto platter for a complete meal!