Introduction
Spinach Tortellini Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This delicious soup is packed with fresh vegetables and tender tortellini, making it a wonderful choice for cozy nights or meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for your family or enjoying a soothing bowl on your own, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
1 celery stalk, diced
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a heartier flavor)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 bag (9 oz) fresh spinach tortellini
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
This Spinach Tortellini Soup is both nourishing and satisfying, perfect for warming you up on a chilly day. The combination of vegetables, tortellini, and rich broth creates a delightful meal that is easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Serve this soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete dining experience. Enjoy your delicious homemade soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Add Garlic and Seasonings
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Simmer the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, including the juices. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
Cook the Tortellini
Add the spinach tortellini to the pot, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the tortellini is cooked through. Be sure not to overcook the tortellini.
Add Spinach
Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth of this delicious, homemade soup!
Notes
Vegetable Broth vs. Chicken Broth
Using vegetable broth makes the soup vegetarian, while chicken broth adds a heartier flavor.
Fresh Spinach vs. Frozen Spinach
Fresh spinach is recommended for better texture and flavor, but you can use frozen spinach if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain it properly before adding.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until softened to bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the flavor of the soup.
Adding Aromatics
When cooking, adding aromatics like garlic and dried herbs enhances the dish’s flavor. Allow the garlic to cook briefly before adding the broth, which will release its essential oils and create a more fragrant base for the soup.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This technique is used to meld the flavors of the vegetables and broth together while ensuring they remain tender.
Cooking Pasta
When adding fresh tortellini, it’s important to monitor the cooking time closely. Fresh pasta cooks quickly, so add it to the simmering soup and watch for the desired doneness to avoid overcooking.
Wilting Greens
To wilt fresh spinach, add it to the soup during the final few minutes of cooking. This technique keeps the spinach vibrant and maintains its nutrients while allowing it to soften and integrate into the soup.
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just increase the cooking time slightly according to the package instructions.
What can I substitute for vegetable broth?
You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a heartier flavor or even make your own broth using vegetable scraps and water.
How can I make this soup vegan?
To make this soup vegan, use vegetable broth and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
How long does the soup last in the refrigerator?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion
This Spinach Tortellini Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, combining tender tortellini with fresh vegetables in a rich broth. It’s an incredibly satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite crusty bread for a complete dining experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Caprese Salad
A refreshing mix of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, perfect for a light appetizer alongside the soup.
Garlic Bread
Crispy, buttery bread infused with garlic and parsley is a classic pairing that complements the soup beautifully.
Chicken Parmesan
Breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese provide a hearty main course option.
Vegetable Quiche
A savory quiche filled with seasonal vegetables and cheese makes for a delightful side dish, bringing an extra layer of comfort to your meal.
Mixed Green Salad
A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will offer a fresh contrast to the warm soup.
Pesto Pasta Salad
Chilled pasta mixed with pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella for a vibrant side that adds another flavor dimension.
Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers filled with a mixture of grains, vegetables, and cheese create a nutritious and filling option to serve along with the soup.
