Sausage Soup with Greens

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to brighten up a chilly day. This Lentil & Sausage Soup with Greens is a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious meal that will quickly become your go-to recipe when you want something satisfying and easy to make. Packed with protein-rich lentils, savory sausage, and vibrant greens, this soup is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a wholesome, one-pot meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Lentil & Sausage Soup with Greens is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The earthy lentils blend beautifully with the rich, spiced sausage, while the fresh greens add a pop of color and a boost of nutrients. What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and flexibility. It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Not only is this soup comforting and delicious, but it’s also packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, making it a nourishing meal you can feel good about. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite greens or spices, so you can make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will guide you to a bowl of pure satisfaction.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound turkey sausage (remove casing, crumbled)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups chopped kale or Swiss chard (stems removed)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How To Make Lentil & Sausage Soup with Greens

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the crumbled turkey sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Spices and Lentils

Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices. Then add the rinsed lentils to the pot, stirring to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir everything together. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Step 5: Add the Greens

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the chopped kale or Swiss chard. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like. Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping.

Expert Tips

• Choose lentils that hold their shape well, such as green or brown lentils, for the best texture in soup.
• For a deeper flavor, consider browning the sausage until slightly crispy before removing it to sauté the vegetables.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a cup of the soup and then stir it back into the pot.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice at the end – it really brightens and balances the savory flavors.
• Use a good quality broth for the richest taste, or make your own if you have time.
• Make sure to rinse lentils well to remove any dust or impurities before cooking.
• Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Variations and Customizations

• Meat alternatives: Swap turkey sausage for chicken sausage or a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Greens: Try spinach, collard greens, or even kale stems for added texture.
• Vegetables: Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
• Spices: Experiment with curry powder or Italian seasoning to change up the flavor.
• Beans: Mix in cannellini beans or chickpeas for additional protein and creaminess.
• Grains: Stir in cooked quinoa or brown rice for a more filling soup.
• Broth: Use mushroom broth or beef broth for a richer base.

How to Store Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and cool completely before refrigerating. When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. For longer storage, Lentil & Sausage Soup with Greens freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Keep in mind that the greens may become softer after freezing, but the soup will still taste delicious.

FAQ

Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use chicken sausage, beef sausage, or even plant-based sausage alternatives. Just make sure to remove casings and cook thoroughly. Adjust seasonings as needed to balance the flavors.

Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?

No soaking is required for green or brown lentils. They cook relatively quickly and hold their shape well. Just rinse them thoroughly before adding to the soup.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! For a slow cooker, brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients except the greens and lemon juice. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the greens and lemon juice in the last 15 minutes. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function for browning, then pressure cook for 15 minutes with all ingredients except greens and lemon juice. Release pressure, add greens and lemon, and cook on sauté for a few more minutes.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This soup stores well in the fridge and freezes beautifully. It makes for easy, nutritious lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just portion it out and reheat when ready to eat.

Conclusion

Lentil & Sausage Soup with Greens is a delicious, nourishing, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, bursting with flavor, and comes together in one pot with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for busy days ahead, this soup delivers comfort and nutrition in every spoonful. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple it is to make and how wonderfully it fills your kitchen with inviting aromas. Happy cooking!