Italian Sausage Bean Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that traces its origins to the rich culinary traditions of Italy. The soup combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with a variety of vegetables, beans, and barley, creating a comforting and wholesome meal. This classic soup has been enjoyed by generations of families and remains a popular choice during colder months.

The Italian cuisine is well-known for its emphasis on simple yet robust flavors, and this soup is no exception. It exemplifies the rustic and comforting nature of Italian cooking, with each ingredient contributing to the overall depth of flavors.

PREP: 20 MIN.

COOK: 1½ HOURS

MAKES: 8 SERVINGS (3 QUARTS)

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, sliced
• 4 cans (14½ ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14½ ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup medium pearl barley
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 1 celery rib, sliced
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh sage
• ½ teaspoon minced fresh rosemary or ⅛ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
• 6 cups chopped fresh kale

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage and finely chopped onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. Add the sliced garlic and cook for an additional minute for the flavors to meld. Drain any excess fat.
2.  Stir in the reduced-sodium chicken broth, rinsed and drained pinto beans, undrained diced tomatoes, and medium pearl barley into the Dutch oven with the cooked sausage. Also, add the sliced carrot and celery, minced fresh sage, and minced fresh rosemary (or dried rosemary, if using).
3.  Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer.
4.  Cover the Dutch oven and let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend, and the barley to cook to a tender texture.
5.  Stir in the chopped fresh kale, then return the soup to a boil once again.
6.  Lower the heat, cover the Dutch oven, and let the soup simmer for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender, and the kale is wilted to perfection.
7.  Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve piping hot. Optionally, you can top it with some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of Italian flavor.

Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this Italian Sausage Bean Soup, perfect for a satisfying family meal or to share with friends on a chilly day!

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Garlic Bread: Serve the Italian Sausage Bean Soup with some freshly baked garlic bread on the side. The aromatic garlic bread complements the flavors of the soup and adds a delightful crunch to each spoonful.
• Italian Antipasto Salad: Create a balanced and authentic Italian meal by pairing the soup with a refreshing Italian Antipasto Salad. The salad can include a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, marinated vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. The combination of the hearty soup and the vibrant salad offers a delicious and satisfying dining experience.