Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana

Zuppa Toscana Recipe - Italian Soup with Sausage, Potatoes, and Kale

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana is a popular Italian soup that is hearty and flavorful. This soup is a perfect combination of spicy sausage, bacon, potatoes, and kale in a creamy broth. It is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in.

History

Zuppa Toscana originated in the Tuscany region of Italy, where it is a traditional soup that is often served as a first course. The Olive Garden restaurant chain popularized this dish in the United States, where it has become a favorite among diners.

Ingredients

1.5 cups spicy sausage links
0.75 cups diced onions
6 slices bacon
1.5 tsp minced garlic
2 tbsp chicken bouillon powder (or 2 cubes, crushed)
1 qt (946 ml) water
2 medium potatoes, sliced and halved
2 cups thinly sliced kale leaves (spinach can be substituted)
0.33 cup heavy whipping cream (or fat-free half-and-half)
parmesan cheese for garnish

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
Place the sausage links on a sheet pan and bake for 25 minutes or until they are cooked through.
Allow the sausages to cool, then slice them and halve the slices.
In a large saucepan, cook the onions and bacon over medium heat until the onions are almost translucent.
Remove the bacon and crumble it.
Add the garlic to the onions and cook for one minute.
Stir in the bouillon powder, water, and potatoes.
Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes.
Add the bacon, sausage, kale, and cream.
Simmer for an additional 4 minutes and then serve.
Garnish with Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!

Variations

Substitute kale with spinach for a milder flavor.
Use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the sausage thoroughly before slicing it for the soup.

- Crumble the bacon after cooking it for added texture and flavor.

- Simmer the soup for the full 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup for the full 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a leaner option.

- Substitute heavy cream for half-and-half for a richer soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana in individual bowls garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana with a glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio for a classic Italian meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (half-and-half) and pork (sausage and bacon).

Summary

Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana is a rich and flavorful soup that is high in fat and protein. It is a satisfying dish that is perfect for a cold winter night.

Summary

Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana is a delicious and comforting soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty dish is full of flavor and is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. I was at my friend Maria's house for a dinner party, and she had made this delicious soup called Zuppa Toscana. The moment I took my first spoonful, I knew I had to have the recipe. Maria graciously shared it with me, and that's how my journey to perfecting Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana began.

I must admit, I have always been a fan of Italian cuisine. There's just something about the flavors and ingredients that speak to my soul. So when I tasted that first spoonful of Zuppa Toscana, I knew it would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

The key to the soup is the perfect balance of flavors - the spicy sausage, the creamy broth, the tender potatoes, and the hearty kale. It's a combination that is both comforting and satisfying, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy dinner with loved ones.

Over the years, I have made Zuppa Toscana countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that dinner party at Maria's house, where I first fell in love with this dish.

One of the secrets to making the perfect Zuppa Toscana is using high-quality ingredients. I always make sure to buy the best Italian sausage I can find, as well as fresh kale and potatoes. The broth is also crucial - I prefer to make my own using a combination of chicken broth and heavy cream, but store-bought broth works just as well if you're short on time.

The process of making Zuppa Toscana is relatively simple, but it does require some patience and attention to detail. First, I start by browning the sausage in a large pot, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. This step is essential for building flavor and depth in the soup.

Next, I add in the onions and garlic, letting them cook until they are fragrant and translucent. Then, I pour in the chicken broth and let the soup simmer for a while to allow the flavors to meld together.

Once the broth has had a chance to develop, I add in the potatoes and let them cook until they are tender. Finally, I stir in the kale and heavy cream, letting the soup simmer for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.

The result is a rich and creamy soup that is bursting with flavor. The spicy sausage adds a kick of heat, while the potatoes and kale provide a hearty texture. It's a soup that is both comforting and nourishing, perfect for a cold winter night or a lazy Sunday afternoon.

I have shared my recipe for Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana with many friends and family members over the years, and it has become a favorite among them all. There's something magical about a homemade soup that warms the soul and brings people together around the dinner table.

So the next time you're craving a taste of Italy, why not try your hand at making Zuppa Toscana? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be sharing this recipe with your own loved ones, passing on the tradition of good food and good company for generations to come.Buon appetito!