If you’re a fan of hearty, creamy soups that transport you to the rolling hills of Tuscany, then Zuppa Toscana Soup is your next must-try recipe. This comforting, flavorful soup is a perfect blend of savory Italian sausage, creamy broth, and healthy vegetables like kale and potatoes, making it the ideal meal for cold weather or any time you need a satisfying dish.
Whether you’re looking to replicate the iconic soup from Olive Garden or simply seeking a new addition to your homemade soup repertoire, this Zuppa Toscana Soup recipe will not disappoint. Let’s dive into what makes this soup a fan favorite and how you can recreate it at home with ease.
What Is Zuppa Toscana?
“Zuppa Toscana” translates to “Tuscan soup,” and the name alone gives us a clue about the origins of this delicious dish. The word “zuppa” means “soup” in Italian, and “Toscana” refers to the region of Tuscany in central Italy, which is famous for its rich culinary traditions. Traditionally, Zuppa Toscana Soup was made with simple, wholesome ingredients like vegetables, beans, potatoes, olive oil, and Tuscan bread, offering a rustic, flavorful meal.
However, the American version, which became famous at Olive Garden, takes it up a notch by adding hearty Italian sausage, crispy bacon, garlic, and a touch of heavy cream for a rich, creamy finish. This fusion of flavors creates a soup that is not only comforting but also satisfying enough to be considered a meal on its own.
Is Zuppa Toscana Healthy?
While Zuppa Toscana is undeniably delicious, it’s important to consider its nutritional content to fully understand its health benefits and drawbacks.
Health Benefits:
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: The soup contains a good amount of kale, which is high in vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C. The potatoes provide potassium and fiber, while the onions and garlic offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Protein and calcium: The inclusion of Italian sausage and bacon gives the soup a nice dose of protein and calcium, which are essential for muscle repair and bone health.
Areas for Consideration:
- Saturated fats: The sausage, bacon, butter, and heavy cream contribute a significant amount of saturated fat, which, if consumed in excess, can affect heart health.
- Caloric content: Zuppa Toscana can be quite calorie-dense due to the sausage and cream, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation or with modifications.
Healthier Variations
If you’re looking to reduce the fat content without compromising the flavor, there are a few substitutions you can make:
- Lean sausage: Opt for chicken sausage or turkey sausage instead of pork sausage to cut down on fat.
- Lighten the cream: Instead of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half, fat-free milk, or even a plant-based cream like coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind, though, that using non-dairy substitutes may change the texture slightly.
- Less butter: You can reduce the butter by half and still get a flavorful base for the soup.
Can You Freeze Zuppa Toscana?
Yes! Zuppa Toscana is a fantastic soup for meal prepping and freezing. However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind when freezing this soup:
- Potatoes: While the soup freezes well, the potatoes might become a little mushy upon reheating. To prevent this, you can either undercook the potatoes slightly before freezing or use frozen potatoes that are designed for soups and stews.
- Kale: Kale can change in texture when frozen, losing its vibrant green color and becoming slightly more wilted. If this doesn’t bother you, feel free to freeze the soup with the kale included.
It’s best to consume frozen Zuppa Toscana within 2-3 weeks for the best flavor and texture. When reheating, simply warm it on the stove over low heat and add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen it up.
Ingredients for Zuppa Toscana
To make this rich and creamy soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Italian Sausage: This is the heart of the soup. Use spicy or mild Italian sausage depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken sausage works great too.
- Bacon: Adds extra flavor and a bit of crunch. You can substitute with bacon bits for convenience.
- Potatoes: Choose yellow potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture when cooked.
- Kale: Adds a nice touch of greens and provides a slight bitterness to balance out the rich creaminess.
- Onions and Garlic: Essential for building flavor in the soup base.
- Heavy Cream: For that creamy, luscious texture. You can substitute with lighter versions or non-dairy cream.
- Chicken Broth: For a savory base. You can also use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Seasonings:
- Salt & Pepper: Season to taste for a well-balanced flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but if you like a little heat, add them to taste.
- Italian Herbs: If you don’t have Italian sausage, you can use a blend of dried Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to add the classic Tuscan flavors.
What to Serve with Zuppa Toscana
While this soup is a hearty meal in itself, you might want to complement it with a few side dishes for a full dining experience. Here are some ideas:
Crusty Baguette: A simple, crispy bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. You can also serve it with a bit of butter for added flavor.
Salad: A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. Try pairing it with a Tomato Cucumber Salad for an added burst of freshness.
Roasted Vegetables: Lemon Parmesan Roasted Asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts can be a great vegetable side to add more nutrients to your meal.
Oyster Crackers: For those who love a crunchy texture, a handful of oyster crackers makes a delightful accompaniment.
How to Make Zuppa Toscana Soup: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you know what makes Zuppa Toscana so special, it’s time to dive into the process of making this delicious soup from scratch. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through each step to ensure you get that rich, creamy, and comforting bowl of soup just like your favorite Olive Garden version.
Ingredients:
1 pound spicy Italian sausage (or mild sausage for a kid-friendly version)
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 white onion (diced)
1 tablespoon minced garlic
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
4-5 yellow potatoes (cut into 1-inch cubes)
3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups heavy cream
4 cups chopped kale
Chopped bacon or bacon bits (optional, for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Brown the Sausage
In a large pot, heat a bit of butter over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Once the sausage is cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot and set it aside on a plate.Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the remaining butter and let it melt. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.Add the Broth and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and water, and then add the cut potatoes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Bring the pot to a boil, and then reduce the heat to medium. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which will take about 10-15 minutes.Add Kale and Sausage
Once the potatoes are tender, add the chopped kale and cooked sausage back into the pot. Stir to combine everything evenly. The kale will wilt down and add that lovely green color and texture to the soup.Make it Creamy
Lower the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir until the soup is smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary.Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with bacon bits and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Zuppa Toscana soup !
Tips for Perfecting Zuppa Toscana Soup
While this soup is incredibly easy to make, here are a few tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:
Don’t overcook the potatoes: You want the potatoes to be tender, but not falling apart. Keep an eye on them while they cook to ensure they hold their shape.
Use fresh kale: Kale wilts down nicely in this soup, but stale or older kale might get mushy and bitter. Make sure to use fresh, vibrant kale for the best texture and taste.
Customize the sausage: Depending on your preference, you can use spicy Italian sausage, mild sausage, or even chicken sausage. The type of sausage you choose will directly impact the flavor of the soup, so pick one that aligns with your taste.
For added richness: If you want an even richer soup, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or half-and-half in place of some of the heavy cream.
How to Adjust Zuppa Toscana Soup to Your Taste
This soup is highly customizable, so feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your personal preferences. Here are a few suggestions:
Vegetarian Version: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can replace the sausage with vegetarian sausage or simply use mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Spicy or Mild: If you prefer a spicier version, try adding more crushed red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage. Alternatively, if you prefer it milder, stick with mild sausage and reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
Dairy-Free: To make this recipe dairy-free, swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk. For cheese, you can use a dairy-free Parmesan or skip it altogether.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this Zuppa Toscana Soup :
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 833 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 76 g |
| Saturated Fat | 38 g |
| Cholesterol | 246 mg |
| Sodium | 3849 mg |
| Potassium | 1084 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Vitamin A | 8563 IU |
| Vitamin C | 110 mg |
| Calcium | 241 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
Recap
Zuppa Toscana Soup is a rich and creamy dish that combines the best of Italian flavors with a comforting, hearty texture. It’s perfect for a cold evening when you need a meal that will fill you up and warm your soul. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this restaurant-quality soup at home.
Not only does it satisfy your cravings for a delicious meal, but it’s also highly customizable, allowing you to make substitutions based on your dietary preferences or what you have in the pantry. Whether you enjoy it with a crusty baguette, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables, Zuppa Toscana is sure to become a favorite in your household.
FAQs On Zuppa Toscana Soup
1. What is Zuppa Toscana soup made of?
Zuppa Toscana soup is made with a combination of Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, onions, garlic, and a creamy broth. It also includes chicken broth, heavy cream, and seasonings such as salt and pepper. The addition of bacon or Parmesan cheese as toppings enhances the flavor and texture of this comforting soup.
2. What is the most popular soup at Olive Garden?
The most popular soup at Olive Garden is Zuppa Toscana Soup. It’s a customer favorite due to its rich, creamy texture and hearty ingredients, including Italian sausage, potatoes, and kale. It’s often served alongside their famous breadsticks, making it a satisfying meal option.
3. Why is it called Zuppa Toscana Soup?
The name Zuppa Toscana Soup comes from Italian. The word “zuppa” means “soup” and “Toscana” refers to the Tuscany region in Italy. So, Zuppa Toscana literally translates to Tuscan soup or Tuscan-style soup. The soup is inspired by the flavors of Tuscany, typically made with simple, hearty ingredients like vegetables, beans, and olive oil, though the American version adds sausage and cream for richness.
4. Can I make Zuppa Toscana soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Zuppa Toscana soup ahead of time! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2-3 weeks. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency.
5. Can Zuppa Toscana soup be made without heavy cream?
Yes, you can make Zuppa Toscana Soup without heavy cream! For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. While the soup may not be as thick and rich, it will still be delicious and creamy.
Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spicy Italian ground sausage (or mild for a kid-friendly version)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 white onion (diced)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 4-5 yellow potatoes (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups chopped kale
- Chopped bacon or bacon bits (optional, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat butter over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes. Remove sausage from the pot using a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the remaining butter. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, water, potatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add the kale and sausage back into the pot. Stir well and let the kale wilt down.
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if necessary.
- Serve the soup garnished with chopped bacon and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes:
- You can use leaner sausage options like turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.
- The soup freezes well, but potatoes may become mushy after freezing and reheating.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 833 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 76 g
- Saturated Fat: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 246 mg
- Sodium: 3849 mg
- Potassium: 1084 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Vitamin A: 8563 IU
- Vitamin C: 110 mg
- Calcium: 241 mg
- Iron: 3 mg
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
