Name: Tomato Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz diced tomatoes); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 package (9 oz cheese tortellini); 2 cups fresh spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Warm up with this comforting tomato tortellini soup, a delightful fusion of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for chilly evenings or a quick lunch, this dish combines tender tortellini with a rich, savory tomato broth. Easy to prepare and bursting with freshness, it’s a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again!

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
2 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 8g fat, and 4g fiber.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in vegetable broth and add diced tomatoes with their juice.
Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Add the cheese tortellini and cook for 5-7 minutes, until tender.
Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the cheese tortellini with spinach or meat tortellini for a different flavor profile. Additionally, use canned crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture or add a splash of cream for richness.

Serving and Pairings

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy it alongside a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. Freezing is not recommended as the tortellini may become mushy.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t overcook the tortellini; it can become mushy.
Ensure to sauté the onion and garlic properly for flavor.
Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
Avoid boiling the soup after adding spinach to keep it vibrant.
Don’t skip the seasoning; it enhances the overall taste.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, add a dash of red pepper flakes.
Experiment with different types of tortellini.
Fresh herbs can elevate the dish significantly.
Make a double batch for easy meals during the week.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini can be used directly in the soup without thawing. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Ensure that the broth used is vegetable-based.

Can I add meat to the soup?

Absolutely! Cooked chicken or sausage can be added for a heartier meal.

What can I use instead of spinach?

Kale or Swiss chard can be great alternatives to spinach in this recipe.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

The soup can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This tomato tortellini soup is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings comfort to any table. Perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend meal, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the delightful flavors and simplicity of this crowd-pleaser!