Rustic Pesto Kielbasa & Kale Soup is a hearty and comforting dish, featuring savory turkey kielbasa, tender rice, and vibrant kale. This easy soup with kielbasa brings together the richness of the sausage and the earthiness of the kale, all elevated by a fragrant pesto swirl that adds a burst of fresh, herbal flavor. Perfect for cozy nights, it’s a one-pot meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe:

Flavor-packed Comfort: The combination of savory turkey kielbasa, earthy kale, and rich pesto creates a deliciously layered flavor profile that’s both satisfying and cozy.
Quick & Easy: This easy soup comes together in one pot, making it the perfect weeknight meal for busy days without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Healthy & Hearty: With nutrient-packed kale, wholesome rice, and the lean protein from kielbasa, this soup is a balanced meal that fills you up without feeling heavy.
Customizable: You can adjust the level of pesto to suit your taste, or even add extra veggies for an even more personalized dish!

Ingredient Notes:

Turkey Kielbasa: This leaner version of kielbasa still delivers all the savory, smoky flavor you’d expect. If you prefer a different type of sausage, you can easily swap in traditional pork kielbasa or chicken sausage for a different taste.
Carrots & Celery: These vegetables add a subtle sweetness and crunch to the soup. The carrots provide a touch of earthiness, while the celery brings freshness and an aromatic bite to balance the richness of the sausage.
Kale: Kale not only adds vibrant color to the soup but is also packed with vitamins and fiber. Be sure to destem the kale, as the stems can be tough. If kale isn’t your thing, you can substitute with spinach or Swiss chard for a similar texture and taste.
Garlic & Onions: The garlic and onions form the aromatic base of the soup, adding depth and savory flavor. Sauté them in butter to bring out their natural sweetness before adding the broth.
Chicken Broth: The rich, savory flavor of chicken broth creates the perfect base for this soup, balancing the other ingredients. You can use low-sodium broth if you prefer more control over the salt content, or vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian version.
Pesto: The pesto is the secret ingredient that ties everything together, offering a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. You can use store-bought pesto for convenience or make your own for a more personalized touch. For a dairy-free version, try using nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan in the pesto.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is used here to absorb the broth and add a satisfying texture. You can swap in brown rice or quinoa for added fiber, though be mindful of the longer cooking times for those alternatives.
Shredded Parmesan: Topping the soup with freshly shredded Parmesan adds a savory, salty finish that enhances the overall flavor. You can skip this if you’re looking for a dairy-free option or substitute with a vegan cheese.

Dietary Restriction & Allergy-Friendly Substitutions:

To make it gluten-free:
- Ensure your turkey kielbasa is gluten-free by checking the label.
- Use gluten-free pesto (many store-bought options are available) or make your own using gluten-free ingredients.
- Opt for a gluten-free broth.
To make it dairy-free:
- Swap the shredded Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Use a dairy-free pesto or make your own using dairy-free ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and nutritional yeast.
- Ensure the turkey kielbasa doesn’t contain dairy-based fillers (check the label).
To make it paleo:
- Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb, grain-free alternative.
- Use a nitrate-free sausage, and ensure all other ingredients are compliant with paleo guidelines.
To make it keto:
- Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or another low-carb option like zucchini noodles.
- Ensure the pesto and kielbasa are free of added sugars or starches.
To make it vegetarian/vegan:
- Swap the turkey kielbasa for a plant-based sausage or tofu.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Use a vegan pesto (or make your own with dairy-free ingredients like nutritional yeast) and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
To make it nut-free:
- If your pesto recipe or store-bought version contains nuts, substitute with a nut-free pesto (you can make it with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for texture).

kale and kielbasa soup with rice and parmesan

Tips & Recipe Notes:

Sauté the Veggies First: For the best flavor, take a few extra minutes to sauté the garlic, onions, carrots, and celery in butter before adding the broth. This step helps bring out the natural sweetness and depth of the vegetables.
Adjust the Pesto: The pesto adds a strong flavor, so start with 1 tablespoon and taste before adding more. If you prefer a lighter pesto flavor, you can always add less or make a “pesto swirl” just before serving.
Prepping the Kale: Be sure to destem the kale, as the stems can be tough and fibrous. If you prefer a softer green, you can substitute with spinach or Swiss chard.
Rice Substitution: If you want to make the soup lower-carb, swap the rice with cauliflower rice or another low-carb grain substitute. If you’re using a different grain like quinoa or brown rice, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great meal prep option. The flavors deepen over time, and it’s even more comforting the next day.
Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, consider freezing the soup base (without the rice and kale) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, cook fresh rice and add it in just before serving.
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to maintain a balanced consistency.
Parmesan Tip: If you like a cheesy finish, don’t skip the freshly grated Parmesan. It adds a savory, salty kick that complements the pesto beautifully. For a richer finish, you can also swirl in some cream or half-and-half at the end.

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