Zuppa Toscana - Auto Life Solution

Title: Zuppa Toscana (Tuscan Soup)Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yields: 6 servings

Ingredients:

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if sausage is lean)
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
3 cups water
4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced or diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
2 cups kale, stems removed and roughly chopped
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions:

Table of Contents

1. Cook the Sausage and Bacon:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat (if needed for lean sausage). Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up into small pieces until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside with the sausage, leaving a tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.

2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:

Pour in the chicken broth and water, and add the potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Add Kale and Sausage:

Stir in the chopped kale, cooked sausage, and bacon. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale softens.

5. Stir in the Cream:

Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir to combine. Heat through for 2-3 minutes, but don’t let it boil.

6. Season and Serve:

Season the soup with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 400
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Zuppa Toscana is a hearty, comforting soup with savory sausage, tender potatoes, and vibrant kale, all brought together in a creamy broth. Perfect for cold nights or whenever you’re craving something cozy!