Italian Sausage, Vegetable & Rice Soup Recipe for Hearty Comfort

Ingredients

• 1 pound (454 grams) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounces/411 grams) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• Salt
• black pepper
• ¾ cup uncooked long grain white rice
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)