Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe

Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe is a popular Italian-style soup that combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale in a creamy broth. Inspired by the version served at Olive Garden, this soup has become a favorite worldwide for its comforting and delicious flavor. The name “Zuppa Toscana” translates to “Tuscan Soup,” reflecting its rustic Italian roots. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner, warming you up from the inside out!

Ingredients for Zuppa Toscana Soup

To make a delicious pot of Zuppa Toscana, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, as you prefer)
• 5 medium potatoes, sliced thinly or diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 4 cups fresh kale, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Equipment Needed For Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Detailed Instructions Of Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Sausage:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain.
2. In the same pot, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Remove any excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables:

1. Add the chopped onion to the pot with the sausage and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth:

1. Add the sliced or diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions, garlic, and sausage.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add Kale and Cream:

1. Stir in the chopped kale and let it simmer for 5 minutes until it wilts.
2. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the soup is heated through. Be careful not to let the soup boil after adding the cream.

Step 5: Season and Serve:

1. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
2. Serve hot, garnished with the crumbled bacon for an extra crunch.

What to Serve with Zuppa Toscana Soup

Zuppa Toscana Soup is great on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with some crusty Italian bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy broth. A side salad with a light vinaigrette or a plate of roasted vegetables can also complement the rich flavors of the soup.

What Does the Recipe Taste Like?

Zuppa Toscana Soup is savory, creamy, and slightly spicy (if you choose to add red pepper flakes). The Italian sausage adds a robust flavor, while the tender potatoes provide a comforting texture. The fresh kale brings a hint of earthiness, and the heavy cream makes the soup luxuriously smooth. Every spoonful is filled with delicious ingredients, making it a favorite for all ages.

How Healthy is This Recipe?

Zuppa Toscana Soup contains a balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs, but it can be high in calories and fat due to the sausage, bacon, and cream. However, it also provides nutrients from fresh kale, potatoes, and garlic. Here is the nutritional information for a typical serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Total Fat	30g
Saturated Fat	15g
Cholesterol	80mg
Sodium	900mg
Total Carbohydrates	25g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	4g
Protein	18g

Pro Tips for the Perfect Zuppa Toscana Soup

1.Use Quality Sausage: The flavor of the soup depends heavily on the sausage, so choose a good-quality Italian sausage.
2.Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Keep an eye on the potatoes as they cook to ensure they remain tender but not mushy.
3.Adjust the Spice Level: For a mild version, use sweet Italian sausage and skip the red pepper flakes. For a spicier soup, opt for hot Italian sausage and add more crushed red pepper flakes.
4.Add the Kale Last: Kale should be added just before serving to keep it fresh and slightly crisp.
5.Blend for a Creamier Soup: If you prefer a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to puree some of the potatoes and sausage before adding the kale.

Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe Variations

• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb version of Zuppa Toscana.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and replace sausage with a vegetarian sausage or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for more vegetables and a heartier soup.

Conclusion

Zuppa Toscana Soup is a delightful, comforting meal that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. With its rich, creamy broth and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s easy to make, versatile, and can be customized to fit different dietary preferences. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!

5 FAQs about Zuppa Toscana Soup

1.Can I make Zuppa Toscana Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

2.Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, if you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the cream and adding it after reheating.

3.What kind of potatoes are best for Zuppa Toscana Soup?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are great choices as they hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture.

4.How can I make this soup spicier?
Use hot Italian sausage and add more crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

5.Can I use spinach instead of kale?
Yes, you can substitute spinach for kale. Add it at the end of cooking, as it wilts quickly.