With its comforting warmth and inviting aroma, this soup is destined to become a cherished family favorite, ideal for cozy gatherings or quiet weeknight dinners. Additionally, for those valuing convenience, leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days, allowing flavors to meld and intensify over time. Indulge in the delightful Spinach Lasagna Soup, reminiscent of the cherished pasta bake adorning many dinner tables. Its exquisite fusion of flavors and textures renders it a definite crowd-pleaser. To begin, meanwhile, a fragrant tomato broth, infused with the robust essences of garlic, oregano, and basil, forms the tantalizing base. Italian-style chicken sausage adds depth and heartiness to every spoonful, perfectly complementing the aromatic broth.
The addition of al dente lasagna noodles provides a satisfying chewiness, elevating the dish. As the soup nears completion, vibrant spinach leaves introduce a burst of freshness, enriching both color and nutrition. Each bowl is then adorned with a dollop of creamy ricotta, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a garnish of fresh basil, further enhancing its visual appeal and taste profile.
With its comforting warmth and inviting aroma, this soup is destined to become a cherished family favorite, ideal for cozy gatherings or quiet weeknight dinners. Additionally, for those valuing convenience, leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days, allowing flavors to meld and intensify over time. Site
Ingredients required for Spinach Lasagna Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces sweet Italian-style chicken sausage, casings removed (see NOTE)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- One 15-ounce can no-salt-added crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 4 ounces lasagna sheets, broken into pieces
- 3 cups lightly packed fresh spinach leaves, coarsely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced or finely grated
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup ricotta cheese (part-skim or whole)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, cut into ribbons
Directions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, sturdy soup pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the chicken sausage and diced onion, cooking until the onion softens and the sausage browns, which should take approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- As you pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and water, make sure to swirl the water around the empty tomato can to capture all the flavorful remnants.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the noodles are cooked to al dente perfection and the soup has slightly reduced, which typically takes about 15 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and remove the pot from the heat.
- Serve the soup by ladling it into individual bowls, ensuring that each portion receives a generous dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a garnish of fresh basil ribbons.
Note: If chicken sausage with removable casings isn’t available, you can use pre-packaged chicken sausage. Simply slice them into medallions and follow the searing instructions accordingly.
Nutritional Information for Spinach Lasagna Soup:
Per serving, which is 2 cups of soup with part-skim ricotta, the nutritional values are as follows: 467 calories, 28 grams of fat, 4 grams of saturated fat, 37 grams of carbohydrates, 575 milligrams of sodium, 102 milligrams of cholesterol, 27 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber, and 7 grams of sugar.
Nutritional details regarding select ingredients:
Ricotta cheese:
Ricotta cheese boasts high levels of calcium and vitamin B12, making it an excellent protein and vitamin A source. Though whole milk ricotta contains elevated levels of saturated fats and cholesterol, lower-fat alternatives cater to those aiming to moderate their consumption.
Nutrition Information:
A serving of half a cup (129g) of whole milk ricotta cheese contains 204 calories, 14.2g of fat, 135mg of sodium, 8.9g of carbohydrates, 0g of fiber, 0.3g of sugars, 10.1g of protein, 289mg of calcium, 1.1mcg of vitamin B12, 24.8mg of magnesium, and 148.8mcg of vitamin A.
Health Advantages:
- Renowned for its creamy texture, ricotta cheese offers numerous health benefits:
- Supports Bone Health: Ricotta’s calcium and protein content enhances bone strength, diminishing the likelihood of fractures and osteoporosis.
- Aids Weight Management: Dairy consumption may assist in preserving lean muscle mass while reducing overall calorie intake, facilitating weight loss and muscle maintenance.
- Lowers Colorectal Cancer Risk: Studies indicate that dairy intake, attributed to its calcium levels, may decrease the risk of colorectal and colon cancers.
- Enhances B12 Intake: Ricotta cheese serves as a valuable source of vitamin B12, crucial for metabolism and brain health, particularly beneficial for individuals with limited meat consumption.
- Combats Inflammation: Ricotta and other dairy products may mitigate inflammation associated with metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, promoting overall well-being.
Chicken Broth:
Benefits of Chicken Broth
Chicken broth is packed with nutrients that offer a range of health benefits. With its low calorie and fat content, it provides ample protein, vitamins, and minerals essential for overall well-being. The collagen and amino acids in chicken broth support various bodily functions:
- Boosts Immune System: The minerals and amino acids in chicken broth can strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.
- Supports Joint Health: Collagen and gelatin in chicken broth help improve joint health and alleviate arthritis-related discomfort.
- Aids Digestion: Amino acids in chicken broth promote a healthy gut lining, enhancing digestion.
- Promotes Healthy Skin: Collagen contributes to better skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
- Enhances Bone Health: Essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus strengthen bones.
- Supports Weight Loss: Low in calories, chicken broth helps manage appetite, aiding in weight loss efforts.
- Improves Sleep Quality: The amino acid glycine in chicken broth improves sleep quality and reduces daytime fatigue.
Incorporating chicken broth into your diet can provide numerous health benefits, making it a valuable addition to your meals.