Description
A robust, one-pot wonder that brings comfort to your table in just 30 minutes. This hearty soup features lean Italian turkey or chicken sausage, aromatic Vidalia onion, crisp bell peppers, and tender rice simmered in a savory broth. It is a nutritious, fiber-packed meal that perfectly bridges the gap between fast convenience and home-cooked quality. Designed for busy weeknights, this recipe is a versatile, crowd-pleasing hug in a bowl that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian turkey or chicken sausage, casings removed
1 large sweet Vidalia onion, finely diced
1 large red bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes
6 cups chicken stock (ensure alcohol-free)
1 cup quick-cooking rice
1 cup zucchini, chopped
1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the turkey or chicken sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken stock, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Stir in the quick-cooking rice, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
Add the zucchini and green beans to the pot and continue simmering for another 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Season with Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Feel free to use brown rice if you prefer a nuttier texture, but adjust cooking time accordingly. This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freezes beautifully. Use any leftover seasonal vegetables like spinach or carrots to reduce food waste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg