High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage

High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage is a delightful spin on the classic minestrone. This soup is not only hearty and comforting but also packed with protein thanks to the savory Italian sausage. Perfect for dinner or meal prep, this recipe will become a favorite in your household. You’ll love the robust flavors and how it warms you up on chilly days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Protein-Packed: With Italian sausage and beans, this soup provides a substantial amount of protein, making it a satisfying meal option.
• Flavorful: Each ingredient, from garlic to fire-roasted tomatoes, adds layers of flavor that make every spoonful enjoyable.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes to suit your taste preferences.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch for easy lunches throughout the week or freeze for later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for dicing vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

A higher-protein twist on a classic. High protein minestrone soup with Italian sausage is filling and flavorful — perfect for dinner or meal prep.

Protein Source

• 1 lb mild Italian sausage (removed from casing)

Vegetables

• 2 ribs celery (diced small)
• 1 yellow onion (diced small)
• 2 large carrots (diced small)
• 5 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 1 medium zucchini (diced small)
• 1 Yukon gold potato (peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes)
• 1 cup trimmed green beans (diced)

Beans & Tomatoes

• 1 15-oz can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 15-oz can white beans (I like navy beans) (drained and rinsed)
• 1 28-oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes

Broth & Seasonings

• 5 cups chicken broth (I prefer Better-Than-Bouillon mixed with water)
• ½ tsp salt
• black pepper (to taste)
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 parmesan rind (optional)

Pasta

• ½ cup uncooked ditalini pasta (or any other small pasta shape)

How to Make High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat your pot to medium. Add the sausage and crumble with a spatula, cooking until browned and no longer pink. Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add celery, onion, carrots, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add garlic and stir. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until just fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add back cooked sausage crumbles along with zucchini, potato, green beans, beans, crushed tomatoes, broth, bay leaves, and parmesan rind. Stir well. Cover the pot and keep the heat at medium until the soup reaches a gentle boil. Then turn it to medium-low and simmer covered for 30-45 minutes or until potatoes are soft.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Add pasta to the pot and stir. Continue to simmer for an additional 7-10 minutes or until pasta is cooked to al dente.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the bay leaves and parmesan rind when the pasta is done cooking. Turn off the heat. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage

Serving High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors and textures.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up all the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Add a twist by serving it with garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor.

Fresh Salad Option

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the heartiness of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the soup without overpowering it.

Cheese Pairings

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan on top of each bowl for an added savory touch.
• Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella balls can be served on the side for a creamy contrast.

Wine Selection

• Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or another medium-bodied red wine pairs beautifully with the Italian sausage flavors.
• White Wine: Alternatively, a crisp Pinot Grigio can enhance the soup’s freshness.

How to Perfect High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage

To ensure your High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Seasonings Carefully: Taste as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to match your preference for heat and flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Bay Leaves: They add depth; just remember to remove them before serving!
• Cook Pasta Separately (Optional): For a thicker soup, cook pasta separately and add just before serving to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Freeze for Later Use: This soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers for quick meals later.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage

Complement your High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage with delicious side dishes that round out your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for mopping up leftover broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing taste.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional texture and nutrients to your meal.
4. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, olives, and cheeses can serve as a delightful starter.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon dressing offers a nutritious complement to the hearty soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with grains or meats make a filling side that pairs well with minestrone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong sausage: Choosing a spicy sausage can alter the soup’s flavor dramatically. Opt for mild Italian sausage for a balanced taste.
• Not dicing vegetables evenly: Unevenly chopped vegetables can lead to inconsistent cooking times. Take your time to dice them into small, uniform pieces.
• Skipping the bay leaves: Bay leaves add depth to the soup. Don’t forget this crucial ingredient for enhanced flavor!
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy results. Stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for perfect al dente texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The soup might need more salt or pepper after cooking. Always taste and adjust before serving for optimal flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and heat covered until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage.

How can I make High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage vegetarian?

You can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for added texture and umami flavors.

Can I add more vegetables to this minestrone soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers based on your preferences.

How long does High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage last in the fridge?

The soup remains fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

What type of beans is best for this recipe?

Red kidney beans and navy beans work well, but you can also use cannellini beans or any preferred bean variety.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, dried herbs are a great alternative. Use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs since they have a more concentrated flavor.

Final Thoughts

High protein minestrone soup with Italian sausage is both hearty and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for dinner or meal prep. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort!

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High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

High Protein Minestrone Soup With Italian Sausage is a comforting and hearty dish that reimagines the classic minestrone with a protein boost. This savory soup features flavorful Italian sausage, an array of fresh vegetables, and nutritious beans, making it perfect for dinner or meal prep. Each spoonful offers a delightful explosion of robust flavors, warming you up on chilly days. Not only is this soup satisfying, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or enjoying leftovers for lunch, this minestrone will quickly become a household favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb mild Italian sausage
• 2 ribs celery
• 1 yellow onion
• 2 large carrots
• 5 cloves garlic
• 1 medium zucchini
• 1 Yukon gold potato
• 1 cup green beans
• 1 can red kidney beans
• 1 can white beans (navy or cannellini)
• 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 5 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup uncooked ditalini pasta

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until no longer pink; remove and set aside.
2. Sauté celery, onion, carrots, salt, pepper, and chili flakes for about 8-10 minutes until softened.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Return sausage to the pot along with zucchini, potato, green beans, beans, tomatoes, broth, bay leaves, and parmesan rind. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce to medium-low and simmer for 30-45 minutes.
5. Stir in pasta and continue simmering for another 7-10 minutes until al dente.
6. Remove bay leaves and serve hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 60mg