Zucchini Tomato Soup with Italian Sausage 🍲🌿

This hearty and aromatic soup is a perfect blend of fresh summer flavors and comforting warmth. The addition of Italian sausage gives it a delicious kick, while the zucchini and tomatoes create a nourishing base. It's an excellent option for a cozy dinner or a quick meal prep for the week. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a fulfilling experience! 🥖🍅

Ingredients

For the soup base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 3 medium zucchinis, chopped
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For garnish

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

2. Brown the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the pot. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Add Zucchini and Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped zucchini and canned diced tomatoes, along with their juices. Mix well and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.

4. Pour in the Broth: Add the broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Blend if Desired: For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, leave it chunky for a heartier feel!

6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread on the side.

🍽️ This soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, and it often tastes even better on the second day as the flavors continue to develop.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage instead of mild, or add red pepper flakes for extra heat. 🌶️
• Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or add more vegetables like bell peppers and carrots.
• Creamy Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a richer finish.
• Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or dill in addition to or instead of the dried herbs for a unique flavor profile.

Whip up this comforting soup and enjoy a taste of Italy in every bowl! 🍅🇮🇹