### Simple Zuppa Toscana: A Heartwarming 30-Minute Recipe
Zuppa Toscana is a cherished Italian-American soup that offers comfort and warmth, particularly in chilly weather. This straightforward recipe enables you to craft a tasty version in just 30 minutes, highlighting browned sausage, soft potatoes, and wilted kale, all immersed in a creamy, flavorful broth.
#### Ingredients
– **For the Soup:**
– 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your taste)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 medium potatoes, chopped (Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal)
– 6 cups water
– 2 tablespoons Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor base
– 2 cups kale, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
– **To Serve:**
– Crusty bread, for dipping
#### Instructions
1. **Cook the Sausage, Onions, and Garlic:**
– In a large Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and sauté until browned. Next, incorporate the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until softened and aromatic.
2. **Incorporate Potatoes and Broth:**
– Mix in the chopped potatoes and pour in the water. Add the Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor base. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the potatoes become tender.
3. **Add Kale and Cream:**
– Blend the chopped kale and heavy cream into the pot. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and the flavors combine beautifully.
4. **Season and Serve:**
– Adjust the soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and paired with crusty bread for dipping.
#### Tips for the Ultimate Zuppa Toscana
– **Broth Flavor:** Incorporating Better Than Bouillon significantly boosts the broth’s taste. If you use regular broth, adjust the salt to your preference.
– **Potato Skins:** Leaving the skins on creates a more rustic feel. Baby potatoes can be quartered without peeling.
– **Bacon Optional:** Traditional recipes may feature bacon, but the sausage imparts enough flavor, making it a non-essential addition.
– **Vegetarian Version:** Replace sausage with white beans or a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly option.
#### Frequently Asked Questions
– **Can this be made vegetarian?**
Yes, replace the sausage with white beans or plant-based sausage for a similar taste experience.
– **Is peeling the potatoes necessary?**
No, you can leave the peels on for enhanced texture and added nutrients.
– **How long do leftovers stay fresh?**
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days.
– **Can this soup be frozen?**
Yes, but it’s best consumed within three months to retain quality, as kale and potatoes may discolor over time.
Zuppa Toscana is not only simple to prepare but also immensely gratifying, making it an ideal dish for family meals or cozy evenings at home. Relish the warmth and depth of flavor in this delightful soup with your cherished ones!