If you’re craving a hearty, delicious, and comforting soup that’s packed with flavor, look no further than this Tortellini Soup recipe! It’s an easy-to-make dish, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Loaded with fresh vegetables, tender tortellini, and a savory broth, this soup is sure to please everyone in your family. The addition of spinach or kale adds a burst of green, while the optional grated Parmesan cheese makes it extra special. Let’s dive into the recipe!
What is Tortellini Soup?
Tortellini Soup is a warm and satisfying dish made with cheese tortellini, vegetables, broth, and herbs. The soup is typically prepared by simmering vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, then adding broth, Italian seasoning, and fresh greens. The cheese-filled tortellini adds a deliciously soft, pillowy texture, making it a favorite comfort food. This soup is versatile and can be customized with different ingredients like meats or creamy add-ins for extra richness.
Origin of Tortellini Soup
Tortellini Soup has its roots in Italy, where tortellini pasta is a beloved staple. Tortellini itself is a small, ring-shaped pasta typically filled with a mixture of cheese, meat, or vegetables. While tortellini is often served in a simple broth or with a creamy sauce, it also makes an excellent addition to soups. The combination of tortellini and hearty vegetables in a flavorful broth has become a popular dish in many Italian-American homes and restaurants. Though it has variations in different regions, the essence of Tortellini Soup remains the same: comfort and flavor in every spoonful.
Ingredients with Quantities for Tortellini Soup
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Tortellini Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil and oregano)
- 1 (9-10 oz) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Sauté Vegetables:
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step helps build the base flavor for your soup.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The broth should be fragrant and flavorful by now.
3. Cook Tortellini:
Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, this takes around 3-5 minutes for refrigerated tortellini and slightly longer for frozen tortellini. Stir occasionally to prevent the tortellini from sticking to each other or to the bottom of the pot.
4. Add Greens:
Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the spinach or kale. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the greens are wilted and tender. The greens will add color and nutrients to the soup.
5. Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired for some extra heat. Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. The Parmesan will add a rich, salty depth to the soup.
Variations
Tortellini Soup is incredibly versatile and can be customized in many ways. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Add Protein: For a heartier version, add cooked Italian sausage, ground turkey, or shredded chicken. These meats will provide extra flavor and make the soup more filling.
- Creamier Soup: For a creamier version, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of pesto at the end. This will make the broth richer and velvety.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or green beans for variety.
- Spicy Tortellini Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick. This will elevate the soup with a burst of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated tortellini. Just be sure to cook it for a little longer, according to the package instructions.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, Tortellini Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the tortellini may absorb some of the broth, so you might need to add a little extra broth when reheating.
3. Can I freeze Tortellini Soup?
You can freeze the soup without the tortellini, as the pasta tends to get mushy when frozen. To freeze, cook the soup base (vegetables and broth), let it cool, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the soup and add freshly cooked tortellini.
4. What can I serve with Tortellini Soup?
Tortellini Soup pairs perfectly with a crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic bread. For a lighter option, try serving it with a simple green salad.
Conclusion
Tortellini Soup is a delightful, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. Packed with vegetables, tender tortellini, and flavorful broth, it’s a recipe you can enjoy with family and friends. Plus, the many variations and customizable ingredients mean you can make it your own! Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of delicious, homemade Tortellini Soup today!
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Tortellini Soup Recipe: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tortellini Soup is a warm and satisfying dish made with cheese tortellini, vegetables, broth, and herbs. The soup is typically prepared by simmering vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, then adding broth, Italian seasoning, and fresh greens. The cheese-filled tortellini adds a deliciously soft, pillowy texture, making it a favorite comfort food. This soup is versatile and can be customized with different ingredients like meats or creamy add-ins for extra richness.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil and oregano)
- 1 (9-10 oz) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (roughly chopped)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook Tortellini: Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes for refrigerated tortellini, longer for frozen). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Greens: Stir in the spinach or kale and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until wilted.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
Notes
For added flavor and texture, stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale just before serving. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Serve with crusty bread for a comforting, complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmered
- Cuisine: Vegetarian