Sausage Kale Soup - Hearty & Healthy

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that's easy to prepare? Look no further than sausage kale soup! This hearty dish combines the rich, savory flavors of sausage with the nutritional powerhouse that is kale, creating a comforting soup perfect for any season. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this soup is a great addition to your healthy eating routine.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make this flavorful sausage kale soup:

1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or sweet, based on your preference)
1 bunch of kale (roughly chopped, stems removed)
1 large onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups water
3 large potatoes (peeled and diced)
1 can (15 oz) of cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 tbsp olive oil

Optional alternatives:

Vegetarian sausage for a plant-based version
Sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for an extra nutritious twist

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces, making sure to remove the tough stems.
Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes for faster cooking.
Drain and rinse the cannellini beans.

2. Cook the Sausage

Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat in a large pot.
Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
Once the sausage is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside, leaving the oil and sausage drippings in the pot for added flavor.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the dried oregano and thyme, stirring well to coat the onions and garlic.

4. Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked sausage to the pot.
Add the diced potatoes, cannellini beans, chicken or vegetable broth, and water. Stir to combine.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

5. Add the Kale

Add the chopped kale to the pot and stir until wilted and incorporated into the soup.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added touch.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.

Optional Adaptations and Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the soup for more texture and flavor.
Spice It Up: If you like your soup spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños.

Closing Remarks

We hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious sausage kale soup as much as we do. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.