If you’ve ever had Olive Garden’s Zuppa Toscana Soup, then you know how addicting it can be. Or, if you’ve heard of the infamous menu item but could never try it, now’s your chance! My Vegan Zuppa Toscana recipe is just as irresistible as the classic, with all of the rich and creamy qualities you crave. Replicating the richness of the classic in this vegan Olive Garden copycat Zuppa Toscana was surprisingly easy. With vegan-friendly alternatives, like vegan sausage, vegan heavy cream, and plant-based chicken broth, the textures and flavors came together beautifully. You may not even notice it’s vegan!
What is Zuppa Toscana?
Zuppa Toscana, meaning “Tuscan soup” in Italian, is a creamy soup traditionally made with Italian sausage, heavy cream, chicken broth, kale, potatoes, and bacon. It’s a popular menu item at the Italian-American restaurant chain, Olive Garden.
Ingredients needed (with substitutions)
Vegan sausage – Impossible Spicy Sausage in a tube is my go-to for this recipe. Just like in my Vegan Meatballs and Vegan Sausage Rolls, Impossible Meat gives this soup a meaty and hearty flavor that’s very similar to real sausage. However, if you can’t find Impossible sausage, use tempeh sausage (sautéed first) or any savory store-bought savory vegan sausage (crumbled or chopped finely) that’s available.Yellow onionGarlicVegan chicken broth – I used Better Than Bouillon no chicken broth paste mixed with water. Vegetable broth works, too.Russet potatoes – White, starchy potatoes are best because they naturally thicken the soup and become deliciously soft. Yukon Gold potatoes can be used as a substitute.Kale – This is the traditional choice but spinach can be used instead.Crushed red pepper flakes – A pinch of these spicy pepper flakes add a touch of heat that would normally be found in Italian sausage.Vegan heavy cream – You have a few options here. I’ve tested the recipe and had great results using homemade vegan heavy cream substitute, a can of full fat coconut milk or cream, and Country Crock plant cream. For a less rich option, use unsweetened soy, cashew, or almond milk.Salt and pepperVegan parmesan cheese – This can be used as an optional cheesy topping, either homemade or I really like Violife brand. In addition, add crumbled tofu bacon or tempeh bacon, extra chili flakes, or shredded vegan mozzarella on top.
How to make vegan zuppa toscana
Find the complete recipe with measurements below in the recipe card. Begin by sauteeing the vegan sausage crumbles and diced onion in a large soup pot. Cook until the sausage is lightly browned and the onion is translucent. Next, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the broth, potatoes, kale, and red pepper flakes to your pot. Bring the mixture up to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Simmer uncovered until the potatoes are soft. To finish the soup, stir in the vegan heavy cream and cook for a few more minutes. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with vegan parmesan cheese and/or vegan bacon, and enjoy!
Frequently asked questions
Want more creamy vegan soups?
Vegan Broccoli Cheddar SoupCreamy Vegan Cauliflower Kale SoupEasy Vegan Potato SoupVegan Potato Leek Soup
