Ingredients
Serves 4–6
- 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans/cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan, optional
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add vegetables: Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add garlic: Stir in garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
- Build the soup: Add diced tomatoes, white beans, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes.
- Add spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until wilted.
- Finish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Nutrition Information
Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings:
- Calories: ~390 kcal
- Protein: ~21 g
- Carbohydrates: ~35 g
- Fat: ~19 g
- Fiber: ~9 g
- Sugar: ~6 g
- Sodium: ~1,000–1,300 mg
Q/A
Q: Can I use another type of bean?
A: Yes. Great Northern beans or navy beans work well.
Q: Can I use chicken sausage?
A: Yes, chicken or turkey sausage can be substituted.
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain it first, then add it during the final few minutes.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Yes. Add extra red pepper flakes or a little hot sauce.
Q: Can I make it creamy?
A: For a creamier soup, mash some of the beans into the broth or stir in a small amount of cream near the end.