Kielbasa Soup with Potatoes – A Hearty, Nutritious Meal

Recipe Description: Warm up with this rich and hearty Kielbasa Soup with Potatoes! This comforting bowl of soup brings together the smoky flavor of kielbasa, tender potatoes, and a blend of nutritious vegetables, creating a perfect meal for chilly days. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also filled with health benefits to support your well-being.

---

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned. Remove and set aside, leaving any remaining oil in the pot.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Mix in the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery. Season with smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables with the seasonings.
4. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the browned kielbasa back into the pot. If using spinach or kale, add it now and simmer for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy while hot!

---

Nutritional Benefits and Health Advantages

1. Protein and Iron: The kielbasa provides a good source of protein and iron, supporting muscle health and maintaining energy levels.

2. Fiber and Vitamins from Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, and celery contribute fiber, essential for digestive health, as well as vitamins like C and K that boost immunity and improve bone health.

3. Heart-Healthy Fats: The use of olive oil instead of other oils adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, beneficial for cardiovascular health.

4. Low in Carbohydrates (with Leafy Greens Option): Adding spinach or kale not only provides extra vitamins and antioxidants but also keeps the meal low-carb for those on a restrictive diet.

5. Potassium and Magnesium for Hydration and Heart Health: Potatoes and celery are rich in potassium and magnesium, helping to regulate blood pressure and improve hydration.

This soup is ideal for a balanced diet, offering protein, vitamins, and essential minerals that work together to keep you healthy, energized, and satisfied.