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Easy Zuppa Toscana (Better than Olive Garden)
By The Kitchen Girl

When the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Zuppa Toscana to wrap you in comfort. This beloved Italian soup, which has garnered a loyal following thanks to its rich flavours and hearty ingredients, is often attributed to the renowned Olive Garden. However, with a few simple tweaks and fresh ingredients, you can create a version that surpasses even the most popular restaurants. Here’s how to make Easy Zuppa Toscana right in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating an exceptional Zuppa Toscana doesn’t require a lengthy shopping list. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples or easily found at your local market:

• Sausage: 450g of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Potatoes: 3 medium, sliced into thin rounds (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
• Kale: 2 cups, chopped (feel free to substitute with spinach if desired)
• Chicken broth: 4 cups (homemade or store-bought)
• Heavy cream: 1 cup
• Red pepper flakes: To taste (optional)
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Olive oil: For sautéing

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s well browned and cooked through, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant. This base creates an aromatic foundation for your soup.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Next, add the sliced potatoes to the pot, along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Incorporate the Sausage and Kale

After the potatoes have softened, return the browned sausage to the pot. Add the chopped kale and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

To achieve that luscious creaminess, pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to incorporate. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Allow it to heat through for another minute or two, then remove from heat.

Serving Suggestions

Ladle your homemade Zuppa Toscana into bowls, garnishing with freshly cracked black pepper and perhaps a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra flavour boost. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Why This Recipe is Better

While Olive Garden certainly has its charm, making Zuppa Toscana at home allows for greater control over ingredients—you can opt for high-quality sausage, fresh greens, and tailor the soup’s spiciness to your liking. Additionally, homemade soups are often fresher, heartier, and can be adjusted for dietary needs. Plus, there’s an undeniable satisfaction that comes from creating a comforting dish from scratch.

Conclusion

This Easy Zuppa Toscana recipe captures the essence of the original while elevating it to new heights. It’s straightforward, nourishing, and rich in flavour—a perfect antidote to cold weather. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cosy meal at home, this soup is sure to warm your heart and please your palate. So, don your apron and get ready to savour every spoonful of this delightful, rustic Italian dish that’s truly "better than Olive Garden." Enjoy!