Parmesan Tuscano Soup: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Parmesan Tuscano Soup: Prepare to be transported to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany with every spoonful of this creamy, comforting delight! Imagine a symphony of flavors dancing on your palate – the sharp, nutty tang of Parmesan Tuscano cheese mingling with the earthy sweetness of roasted vegetables, all simmered in a rich, velvety broth. This isn’t just soup; it’s an experience.

While the exact origins of Parmesan Tuscano Soup are debated, its essence lies in the heart of Italian cucina povera – the art of creating extraordinary dishes from simple, readily available ingredients. Rooted in resourcefulness and a deep appreciation for fresh, seasonal produce, this soup embodies the spirit of Italian home cooking. It’s a dish that has been passed down through generations, each family adding their own unique touch to the recipe.

But what is it about this particular soup that has captured the hearts (and stomachs!) of so many? Perhaps it’s the irresistible combination of textures – the smooth, creamy broth, the tender vegetables, and the satisfying chew of crusty bread for dipping. Or maybe it’s the sheer convenience of it all – a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated weekend gathering. Whatever the reason, Parmesan Tuscano Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a taste of Italy that’s both comforting and unforgettable. I know you’ll love it!

Ingredients:

• For the Soup Base:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Tuscan Flavors:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1 bunch Tuscan kale (also known as Lacinato kale or cavolo nero), stems removed and chopped
• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings (sweet or hot, your preference!)
• Optional Garnishes:
• Crusty bread, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave any rendered fat in the pot – this will add flavor to the vegetables!
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender and slightly translucent. Don’t rush this step; allowing the vegetables to soften properly will build a deeper flavor in the soup.
3. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

Building the Soup:

1. Combine the Ingredients: Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the vegetables. Add the crushed tomatoes, cannellini beans, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. This is a great time to prepare the kale and get your garnishes ready.
3. Add the Sausage Back In: Return the browned sausage to the pot. Stir to combine.

Adding the Tuscan Touch:

1. Incorporate the Kale: Add the chopped Tuscan kale to the soup. Stir well to incorporate it into the broth. Cook until the kale is wilted and tender, about 5-7 minutes. The kale should turn a vibrant green color.
2. Stir in the Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gently stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. Be careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream, as this can cause it to curdle.
3. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses are already salty, so you may not need to add much salt.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Ladle and Garnish: Ladle the Parmesan Tuscano Soup into bowls.
2. Add the Final Touches: Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the soup immediately with crusty bread for dipping. The bread is perfect for soaking up all the delicious broth!

Tips for the Best Parmesan Tuscano Soup:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the flavor of your soup will be. Use good quality chicken broth, fresh vegetables, and flavorful Italian sausage.
• Don’t Skip the Sautéing Step: Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery is crucial for building a deep, complex flavor in the soup. Don’t rush this step; allow the vegetables to soften and caramelize slightly.
• Simmer for Flavor: Simmering the soup for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and create a richer, more flavorful broth. The longer it simmers, the better it will taste!
• Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the soup while it’s simmering. Stir well and cook until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup while it’s simmering. You can also use hot Italian sausage instead of sweet Italian sausage.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as zucchini, spinach, or potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture of the kale may change slightly after freezing.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Parmesan Tuscano Soup: Omit the Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add a can of diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Creamy Tomato Parmesan Tuscano Soup: Add an extra can of crushed tomatoes and increase the amount of heavy cream to 1 1/2 cups for a richer, creamier soup.
• Parmesan Tuscano Soup with Pasta: Add cooked pasta (such as ditalini or small shells) to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Parmesan Tuscano Soup with Potatoes: Add diced potatoes to the soup along with the carrots and celery. Cook until the potatoes are tender.

Enjoy!

This Parmesan Tuscano Soup is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly day. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do! It’s a family favorite in my house, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too. The combination of the savory sausage, tender vegetables, creamy broth, and cheesy goodness is simply irresistible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Parmesan Tuscano Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, bursting with rich flavors that will transport you straight to the Italian countryside. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who appreciates simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. The creamy broth, the savory sausage, the tender potatoes, and the generous grating of Parmesan Tuscano – it all comes together in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of soup that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a good book and savor every single spoonful. But what truly sets this soup apart is its versatility. While it’s absolutely divine as is, there are so many ways you can customize it to your liking. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Want to make it even heartier? Toss in some cannellini beans or chickpeas. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini. You could even swap the Parmesan Tuscano for Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper flavor profile. The possibilities are endless! Serving Suggestions: I love serving this soup with a crusty loaf of Italian bread for dipping. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the soup beautifully. And for a truly decadent experience, top each bowl with a dollop of mascarpone cheese or a swirl of pesto. This soup is also fantastic as a starter for a larger Italian-themed meal. Imagine serving it before a plate of homemade pasta or a hearty lasagna – your guests will be blown away! Variations to Explore: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of sausage. Sweet Italian sausage will add a touch of sweetness, while spicy Italian sausage will bring the heat. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked sausage. Just be sure to brown it slightly before adding it to the soup to enhance the flavor. Another variation is to use different types of potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes will give the soup a creamy texture, while red potatoes will hold their shape better. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Parmesan Tuscano Soup for yourself. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, and I can’t wait to hear what you think. So, gather your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. Once you’ve made it, please, please, please share your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? I’m always eager to learn from your experiences and see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or send me an email – I’d love to hear from you! Happy cooking! I am confident that you will love this Parmesan Tuscano Soup as much as I do.

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