Warm up with a bowl of delicious tortellini soup. This comforting dish is perfect for any season, combining tender tortellini, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth. Follow our easy recipe to create a satisfying meal in no time.
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Discover how to make classic tortellini soup with this easy recipe. Enjoy tender tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth for a comforting meal.
Introduction
Tortellini soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. This beloved Italian dish features tender tortellini pasta, filled with cheese or meat, swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to impress your guests, tortellini soup fits the bill. The combination of pasta, vegetables, and broth creates a balanced, nutritious dish that is both filling and flavorful. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to make a classic tortellini soup that will become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Directions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (including juice). Stir in dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Cook Tortellini: Once the broth is boiling, add the tortellini. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt, about 2 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread if desired.
How to Prepare
- Sautéing: Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Continue to sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Building the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the can of diced tomatoes, including their juice. Stir well to combine. Add the dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cooking Tortellini: Once the broth is boiling, add the tortellini. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook according to the tortellini package instructions. This typically takes 7-9 minutes. The tortellini should be tender but not mushy.
- Finishing Touches: Stir in the fresh spinach. It will wilt quickly in the hot broth, taking about 2 minutes. Once the spinach is wilted, the soup is ready to serve.
- Serving: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a nice salty finish that complements the flavors of the soup. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on portion sizes.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time as indicated on the package.
2. Can I add meat to this soup? Absolutely. You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or even ground beef to make the soup heartier.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Just add the tortellini and spinach when reheating to prevent them from becoming too soft.
4. Is it possible to use different types of greens? Yes, you can substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or any leafy green of your choice.
5. How do I store leftovers? Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Tortellini soup is a comforting and versatile dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian cuisine in a simple, one-pot meal. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a quick yet satisfying lunch, this soup fits perfectly. The tender tortellini combined with fresh vegetables and a savory broth creates a harmonious blend that is both nourishing and delicious. With minimal preparation and cook time, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour. Plus, this recipe is easily adaptable, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of a homemade tortellini soup that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and savor the delightful experience of making and enjoying this classic dish.
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