Ingredients:
To craft this hearty Tortellini Soup, gather the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Kitchen Essentials
Equip your kitchen with these essential tools for seamless preparation:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Preparation Steps:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until tender and fragrant (5-7 minutes). Stir in garlic for 1-2 minutes.
- Build the Soup Base: Incorporate diced tomatoes, broth, basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer to Perfection: Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
- Cook the Tortellini: Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions (5-7 minutes) until tender.
- Finish with Spinach: Stir in spinach until wilted (1-2 minutes). Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle into bowls, topping with Parmesan and fresh herbs. Pair with crusty bread or a simple salad.
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Tortellini Variety: Experiment with cheese, meat, or spinach tortellini for unique flavors.
- Broth Selection: Opt for homemade or low-sodium broth for healthier control.
- Veggie Boost: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans for extra nutrition.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in heavy cream for a luxurious texture.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding broth if needed for consistency.
Perfect Pairings
Elevate your meal with these complementary pairings:
- Fresh green salad with Italian dressing
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette
- Light red or crisp white wine
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, but freeze without tortellini to prevent mushiness. Add fresh tortellini when reheating.
Q: Can I use dried tortellini? A: Yes, adjust cooking time per package instructions.
Q: How to make it vegetarian/vegan? A: Use vegetable broth and plant-based tortellini and cheese.
Q: How to add protein? A: Include shredded chicken, Italian sausage, or cannellini beans.
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