About this blog:

I am a teacher who likes to cook (and eat.) I am constantly being asked for the recipes to dishes I share with my colleagues, parents or students. This is my place to present them. Many of the recipes I post are borrowed from other sources which are given credit. I tend to tweak most to simplify the cooking process or lessen the cost. Let me know what you think by leaving me some comments. Happy cooking!

April 8, 2014

Zuppa Toscana (just like at Olive Garden)

This recipe that got me through this past cold, snowy, never-ending winter. It's very close to the delicious soup served at the Olive Garden. It goes together fast, is filling and fairly inexpensive.
  •  1 lb. sweet turkey Italian sausage
  • Large pinch red pepper flakes
  • ¼ cup bacon bits
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 large cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 16 oz. chicken broth
  • 1 quart water
  • 2 large russet potatoes cut in quarters lengthwise then sliced
  • 1 cup whipping cream
  • 1 bunch fresh Tuscan (flat) kale, washed well, chopped and tough stems removed
  • Salt and pepper
Brown sausage in your soup pot; then add the pepper flakes, bacon, onion and garlic and sauté for a minute or two.  Add chicken broth and water and stir then add the potatoes. Cook on medium heat until potatoes are tender (about 10 minutes).  Add the kale and cream then salt and pepper to taste. Heat until kale is tender but still bright green.