When the thermometer drops and you feel the chill, there is nothing like a hearty soup to warm you up and brighten your day! This Chard Soup with Sausage will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and become a favorite one pot meal. With two powerful vegetables like chard and butternut squash, you will be nourished and comforted. Pair with a warm focaccia or flatbread.
Nutritional information for chard
Chard Soup with Italian Sausage
Makes 8 servings
Ingredients:
2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion chopped
1/2 pound Italian sausage mild or strong, casings removed
Salt and pepper to taste
6 cloves garlic coarsely chopped
Pinch chili flakes optional, or as much as you like
1 Tablespoon sage fresh, chopped
1 Teaspoon thyme fresh, chopped
1 medium butternut squash diced into 1/2 to 3/4 inch cubes
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Rind of Parmesan cheese optional
1 bay leaf
1/4 cup white wine, optional
1/3 cup orzo
3 cups chard, stems separated from the leaves, chopped (about 1 bunch)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Place a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and sauté the onion, stirring frequently until softened.
- Add the sausage, salt, and pepper. Continue to sauté, all the while breaking up the meat until cooked through.
- Add the garlic, herbs, squash, and broth, Parmesan rind, bay leaf, and wine (if desired).
- Bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat, partially cover, and allow to simmer for 25 to 30 minutes or until you can easily insert a knife in the squash. Stir occasionally.
- Add the chopped ribs of the chard and the orzo. Cook for about 6 minutes and then add the chopped chard leaves.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings. Remove from heat and add the lemon juice. Remove the rind and bay leaf. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Adapted from www.shelovesbiscotti.com
