Zuppa Toscana is a popular Italian soup known for its rich, hearty flavors. This comforting soup typically features a combination of spicy Italian sausage, creamy potatoes, and tender kale or spinach, all simmered together in a savory broth. It’s a perfect balance of flavors—rich yet light, and packed with texture. Zuppa Toscana is often served at family gatherings or as a cozy dinner on a chilly evening, with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 2 cups water
  • 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (Russet or Yukon Gold work well)
  • 2 cups fresh kale, chopped (or spinach, if preferred)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1/4 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Remove any excess fat from the pan if needed.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  3. Add the Liquids and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the sliced potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not mushy.
  4. Add the Kale: Stir in the chopped kale (or spinach), and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the greens are tender and wilted.
  5. Stir in the Cream: Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the pot. Stir well to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the cream to blend with the broth.
  6. Season the Soup: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you like a bit more heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 300–400 kcal
  • Protein: 15–20g (mainly from sausage)
  • Fat: 20–25g (from sausage, olive oil, and cream)
  • Carbohydrates: 20–25g (from potatoes and vegetables)
  • Fiber: 3–4g (mainly from kale and potatoes)
  • Sugar: 2–4g (natural sugar from vegetables)
  • Sodium: 800–1,200mg (depends on the broth and sausage used)

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on portion sizes, type of sausage used, and other ingredients.

Zuppa Toscana is a deliciously comforting soup, perfect for cooler months or any time you want a satisfying, flavorful meal. With its creamy texture and savory sausage, it’s a dish that warms you from the inside out!