One-Pot Zuppa Toscana
One-Pot Zuppa Toscana
I feel like every time I tell you about a soup, I say it’s my favorite. But this time, I truly mean it. Zuppa Toscana is everything you want a soup to be – comforting without being heavy, with incredible flavor. It’s a little bit creamy, with a touch of spice, and plenty of savory sausage and earthy kale. While that flavor profile might sound complex, it’s certainly not. This Zuppa Toscana comes together easily in a single pot in well under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights and cozy Sunday suppers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for when you crave something warm and hearty but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. The delicious combination of spicy sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh kale ensures a satisfying meal that leaves you wanting more. Plus, with everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
- 1 white onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, sliced
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 bunch kale, leaves stripped and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flake (optional)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-step Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or other large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up into chunks with a spatula or wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 2 minutes more. Stir in potatoes and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in kale and let cook until wilted.
- Add cream and red pepper flake, if using, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
To ensure the best flavor, use fresh ingredients, especially the kale. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and if you prefer less spice, opt for a milder sausage. Make sure the potatoes are evenly cubed for consistent cooking.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you want to make this dish lighter, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, or for a non-dairy option, use coconut milk. For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This recipe is rich in protein and fiber, thanks to the sausage and kale. It also provides a good amount of potassium from the potatoes and is a hearty meal that satisfies without being overly caloric.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, Zuppa Toscana can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Can I freeze Zuppa Toscana? Yes, it freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I use as a substitute for kale? If you don’t have kale, spinach or Swiss chard are great alternatives.
Conclusion
One-Pot Zuppa Toscana is not just a soup; it’s a cozy meal that warms both the heart and the belly. I invite you to try this recipe and experience its delightful flavors for yourself. Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below. Happy cooking!
