WINTER WHITE BEAN AND ITALIAN SAUSAGE SOUP




Introduction

Warm up this winter season with a hearty bowl of Winter White Bean and Italian Sausage Soup. This comforting and flavorful soup is perfect for cozy nights in or for sharing with family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Winter White Bean and Italian Sausage Soup is a satisfying and nutritious meal that is easy to prepare. Packed with protein from white beans and Italian sausage, this soup is a filling and delicious option for cold winter days. The combination of garlic, basil, tomatoes, and spinach creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will please your taste buds.

How to Make Winter White Bean and Italian Sausage Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp. minced garlic
  • 1/2 tsp. extra light virgin olive oil
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 3 cups cooked white beans – or one 15 oz. can Great Northern or Cannellini beans, rinsed
  • 1 lb. Italian sausage, cooked and rinsed
  • 1 tsp. dried basil or 4 minced leaves fresh basil
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes
  • 1 10 oz. pkg. frozen spinach
  • 1 tsp. Parmesan cheese

Directions:

  1. Sautee garlic in olive oil.
  2. Add sauteed garlic to 4 cups of chicken broth.
  3. Add white beans to chicken broth and bring to a boil for 5 minutes. Optional: for creamy soup, use a hand blender to puree beans into broth.
  4. Add remaining ingredients and simmer.
  5. Serve topped with Parmesan cheese.

Note: You can make the soup leaner by using Italian turkey sausage and reduce sodium by using dried and cooked beans instead of canned and rinsed.

How to Serve Winter White Bean and Italian Sausage Soup

Serve this delicious soup piping hot in bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Pair it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

How to Store Winter White Bean and Italian Sausage Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup in individual portions for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Winter White Bean and Italian Sausage Soup

  • Use low sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
  • Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
  • Adjust the level of spiciness by choosing mild or spicy Italian sausage.

Variation

For a vegetarian version of this soup, omit the Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra herbs like thyme or oregano for more depth of flavor.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of beans in this soup? Yes, you can substitute Great Northern beans or Cannellini beans with navy beans or butter beans.
  2. Is it necessary to use frozen spinach, or can I use fresh? Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen, but adjust the quantity as fresh spinach will wilt down more.
  3. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it properly in the fridge.

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