Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Add carrots and celery, cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened.
  5. Toss in the bell pepper and smoked sausage, cooking until sausage is browned.
  6. Pour in the vegetable broth, black-eyed peas, and diced tomatoes.
  7. Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  8. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes.
  9. If using, stir in the kale or spinach and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
  10. Serve hot, with crusty bread if desired!