Zuppa del Giorno soup, or “soup of the day,” is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Made with fresh ingredients, this Italian soup is both versatile and nutritious. Whether you prefer it hearty with vegetables or light with lean proteins, it’s easy to customize. Let’s explore how to make this delicious and satisfying soup!
Key Benefits of Zuppa del Giorno Soup
Zuppa del Giorno soup is not only a comforting meal but also a highly nutritious option that brings both warmth and flavor to your table. Here’s why you’ll love Zuppa del Giorno soup:
Versatile & Customizable: One of the best things about Zuppa del Giorno soup is its flexibility. You can adjust the ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have in your pantry. From hearty vegetable-based soups to protein-rich versions with chicken or beef, the possibilities are endless.
Nutrient-Packed: Whether it’s loaded with fresh vegetables or lean meats, Zuppa del Giorno soup is a great way to incorporate more vitamins and nutrients into your diet. It’s often made with wholesome ingredients like tomatoes, carrots, and leafy greens, making it both filling and healthy.
Perfect for All Seasons: While it’s often enjoyed in the colder months, this soup can be adapted to suit warmer weather as well. A lighter, broth-based version of Zuppa del Giorno soup is just as refreshing as a hearty one with a thicker consistency.
Comforting & Soul-Soothing: There’s nothing like a hot bowl of homemade Zuppa del Giorno soup to make you feel cozy and content. Its rich flavors and fragrant aromas can brighten up any day, offering a satisfying and soothing meal.
Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or prepare a nourishing dish for any season, Zuppa del Giorno soup is the perfect choice!
Ingredients for Zuppa del Giorno Soup
Olive oil – Adds flavor and richness when sautéing vegetables.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
Carrots – Provide sweetness, color, and texture.
Celery – Adds a fresh, herbal flavor.
Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor to the soup.
Tomatoes – contribute acidity and sweetness to the broth.
Broth – Serves as the base of the soup.
Leafy greens – Add nutrients and color.
Thyme – Adds earthy, fragrant flavor.
Bay leaves – Enhance the soup’s flavor but should be removed before serving.
Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning.
Optional protein (chicken, beef, or beans) – This makes the soup more filling.
Instructions for Zuppa del Giorno Soup
Making Zuppa del Giorno is as simple as it is rewarding. Follow these easy steps to create a warm, flavorful soup that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds:
Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and tomatoes. Mince the garlic and set aside the leafy greens. Prepare any optional protein like chicken or beans.
Sauté the Veggies
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Add the Garlic
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Create the Soup Base
Add the tomatoes, broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir everything together and cook for 3-4 minutes.
Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes.
Add the Greens and Protein
Add the leafy greens and protein in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Season & Serve
Remove the bay leaves and thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfecting Zuppa del Giorno Soup
To take your Zuppa del Giorno to the next level, here are some expert tips and tricks that will help you create a flavorful, satisfying soup every time:
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves add a rich, aromatic flavor to your soup. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs work as a substitute, but fresh will always give a better depth of flavor.
Sautéing the Veggies: Take the time to sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until they’re soft and golden. This step builds the foundation of flavor and makes a noticeable difference in the final taste.
Simmer Low and Slow: For the best flavor, let the soup simmer on low heat for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows the broth to fully absorb all the flavors from the vegetables and herbs. Don’t rush it!
Customize with Protein: Adding protein like chicken, beef, or beans not only enhances the flavor but also makes the soup more filling. You can even use leftover roasted chicken for a quicker option.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup or simply add more vegetables. For a lighter texture, you can leave it as is or add a bit more broth.
Taste and Season: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need extra salt, pepper, or a dash of olive oil to bring out the flavors just right.
By following these tips, you’ll elevate your Zuppa del Giorno and create a delicious, comforting soup that everyone will rave about. Enjoy every step of the process, and feel free to experiment with flavors that suit your preferences!
Variations of Zuppa del Giorno Soup
Zuppa del Giorno soup is a wonderfully flexible dish that can be customized in many ways. Whether you prefer a heartier meal or a lighter version, here are a few variations you can try:
Vegetarian Zuppa del Giorno soup
Skip the meat and load up on extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and potatoes. You can also add beans, such as white beans or chickpeas, to give the soup some protein and texture. This is a great option for a lighter, plant-based version of Zuppa del Giorno soup.
Zuppa del Giorno soup with Pasta
For a more filling meal, add small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or shells. Simply add the pasta during the last 10 minutes of cooking so it doesn’t overcook and become mushy. This variation transforms Zuppa del Giorno soup into a satisfying one-pot dish.
Creamy Zuppa del Giorno soup
If you’re craving a creamier texture, stir in a bit of heavy cream, milk, or even coconut milk. This will create a rich, velvety soup. You can also use a blender to puree part of the soup for a thicker, creamier base.
Zuppa del Giorno soup with Sausage
For a bit more flavor, try adding Italian sausage, either crumbled or in whole links. The sausage will infuse the soup with savory, spicy undertones, giving it a bold, comforting taste.
Serving Suggestion: Crusty Bread
To make your Zuppa del Giorno even more satisfying, serve it with a warm, crusty loaf of bread. A hearty sourdough or a crispy baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth. The crunchy exterior and soft interior of the bread will complement the rich, savory soup, making every bite a delight. Plus, the bread soaks up the delicious soup, adding to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
FAQs about Zuppa del Giorno Soup
What is the meaning of Zuppa del Giorno?
Zuppa del Giorno is an Italian phrase that translates to “soup of the day.” It refers to a daily special offered in many Italian restaurants, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients. The recipe can vary based on what ingredients are available, making each version unique.
Are La Zuppa soups healthy?
Yes! Many traditional Italian soups, including Zuppa del Giorno, are packed with nutritious ingredients like vegetables, beans, and lean proteins. These soups are often low in calories while providing essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Plus, they are a great way to get more servings of vegetables into your diet.
Zuppa del giorno soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 medium carrots chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 medium tomatoes chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 14.5 oz)
- 4 cups broth vegetable, chicken, or beef
- 4 cups leafy greens spinach, kale, or Swiss chard
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional protein: 1 cup shredded chicken 1 cup diced beef, or 1 can of beans (15 oz)
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by chopping your onion, carrots, celery, and tomatoes. Mince the garlic and set aside your leafy greens. If you’re using optional protein, like chicken or beans, make sure it’s ready to go as well.
Sauté the Veggies
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Add the Garlic
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, making sure it doesn’t burn. The garlic will release a lovely aroma that adds depth to your soup base.
Create the Soup Base
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Add the broth, bay leaves, and thyme sprigs, stirring everything together.
Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and develop.
Add the Greens and Protein
- If you’re adding leafy greens, throw them into the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. If using protein, add it at the same time, allowing it to heat through.
Season & Serve
- Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Add salt and pepper to the soup, adjusting to your taste. Serve it hot and enjoy!