– 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
– 1 can (15 ounces) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
– Olive oil for sautéing
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Creating this incredible Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is a breeze when you follow these steps:
1. Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat until softened, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add the drained white beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken stock, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Add Greens: In the final 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped kale or spinach. Cook until the greens are wilted and tender.
7. Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
8. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.
These steps will help you create a delicious Italian Sausage White Bean Soup that everyone will love.