Olive Garden's Zuppa Tuscana

Ever since I was a kid I have always loved the Zuppa Tuscana soup from Olive Garden. Most of the time I don't even taste their pastas because the soup, salad and bread sticks are enough to satisfy my cravings and fill my belly for one day. But combining all you can eat bread sticks and soup when they are both so delicious is a dangerous combination for me. So I make my own version of Zuppa Tuscana at home that tastes just as good, has fewer calories and is much cheaper than ordering at the restaurant, and it's so easy to make.

Start off by sauteing the chopped garlic in olive oil on medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Add the sausage and red pepper flakes. I use spicy sausage but for a milder soup substitute regular sausage for spicy. Once the sausage is completely browned, pour in the chicken broth, low-fat milk and water and bring to a low boil. While waiting for the soup to boil, thinly slice 3-4 medium red potatoes and chop up two cups of kale. Once the soup is boiling, add in the potatoes and simmer until the potatoes are soft, approximately 8-10 minutes. Add the kale and salt and continue simmering for about 5 minutes. Serve and enjoy the caloric and financial savings! Makes approximately 4 servings.

Ingredients:
1 T. Olive Oil
1 T. Chopped Garlic
1/2 roll Spicy Sausage
1 T. Red Peppers
2 Cans Chicken Broth
1 Cup 1% Milk
1 Cup Water
3-4 Red Potatoes - thinly sliced
2 Cups Chopped Kale
1/4 t. Salt