There’s something so wonderfully comforting about a steaming bowl of tortellini soup on a chilly evening. The moment you take that first sip, you’re wrapped in warmth and flavor – it’s like a hug in a bowl! I remember the first time I made this dish; I was a beginner in the kitchen, just trying to impress my friends, and this tortellini soup turned out to be a hit. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, even for those of us who might burn toast on a regular basis. With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels fancy but is actually quite simple. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home too. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this tortellini soup is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!
Ingredients for Tortellini Soup
Gathering the right ingredients for this tortellini soup is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This will be our trusty base for sautéing.
- 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works perfectly, adding a lovely sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor, so don’t skip this!
- 4 cups vegetable broth: Use low-sodium if you prefer to control the saltiness.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Look for ones with no added sugar for the best taste.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano adds a nice Italian flair.
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini: You can use fresh or frozen depending on what you have on hand.
- 2 cups spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always season according to your preference!
With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a delicious tortellini soup that’s sure to impress!
How to Prepare Tortellini Soup
Making tortellini soup is a delightful journey, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way! Let’s break it down so you feel confident tackling this cozy dish.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
First things first, let’s get that olive oil sizzling! Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your chopped onion and let it cook for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This step is crucial; it builds the flavor base for your soup. Don’t rush it! Next, add in 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for just another minute. You want to smell that garlicky goodness, but be careful not to let it brown – burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin your soup!
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Now it’s time to bring the soup to life! Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth along with 1 can of diced tomatoes (don’t forget to juice it all in!). Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for that lovely herbal aroma. Bring the mixture to a boil – this is key! Boiling helps meld the flavors together and gets everything nice and hot.
Step 3: Add the Tortellini
Once your soup base is bubbling away, it’s time for the star of the show: the tortellini! Gently add in 1 package (9 oz) of cheese tortellini and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to be tender but not mushy. Trust me; there’s nothing worse than overcooked tortellini!
Step 4: Incorporate the Spinach
When the tortellini is perfectly cooked, it’s time to add some greens! Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach until it wilts down, just a couple of minutes. This step adds a burst of color and freshness to your soup, plus it’s a great way to sneak in some nutrients. Make sure to do this step last to keep the spinach vibrant and alive!
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, it’s time to season your masterpiece. Taste your soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. I always recommend starting with a little and adding more as needed. Serve the soup hot, and for a lovely touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. You can even add some grated Parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy every spoonful of your homemade tortellini soup!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk nutrition! Each serving of this comforting tortellini soup is estimated to have about 250 calories, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values per bowl:
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you choose. Enjoy this soup guilt-free, knowing it’s packed with flavor and comfort!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights!
- Easy for Beginners: Simple steps and common ingredients make it a great choice for anyone just starting out in the kitchen.
- Comforting Flavors: The blend of cheesy tortellini, fresh spinach, and savory broth creates a warm, satisfying dish that feels like a hug!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!
- Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients and a good balance of carbs and protein, it’s a wholesome meal choice.
Tips for Success
Here are some handy tips to ensure your tortellini soup turns out perfectly every time! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning; a little extra salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can really brighten the flavors. If you find the soup too thick, add a splash of water or broth to get your desired consistency.
As for storage, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, the tortellini will continue to absorb liquid, so you might want to add a bit more broth when reheating. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Serving Suggestions
Pairing your comforting tortellini soup with the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level! I love serving it alongside a fresh, crunchy salad – think mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad balances the rich flavors of the soup beautifully. You can also enjoy some crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping; there’s nothing quite like soaking up that savory broth! For a little extra flair, consider a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top of the soup or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the salad. Trust me, these combinations will make your meal feel even more special!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini is a fantastic option for this soup. Just toss them in while the soup is boiling and cook according to the package instructions, usually adding an extra minute or two. They’ll cook up perfectly and save you a trip to the store!
What can I substitute for spinach?
If spinach isn’t your thing, no worries! You can easily swap it out for kale or Swiss chard. Both will wilt beautifully into the soup and give you that nice green boost. Just remember to chop them up a bit for easier eating!
How long do leftovers last?
Your tortellini soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat, add a little extra broth or water if it’s too thick, as the tortellini will soak up some liquid while sitting. Enjoy those leftovers!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This tortellini soup isn’t gluten-free since traditional tortellini contains wheat. However, you can find gluten-free tortellini options made from rice or other gluten-free grains. Just check the packaging, and you’ll be all set!
Can I add protein to the soup?
Definitely! If you want to boost the protein in your soup, consider adding some canned beans, like white beans or chickpeas, for a hearty touch. Alternatively, you can toss in some cubed tofu for a wonderful vegetarian protein source. Just add them in when you stir in the tortellini, and let them heat through!
Call to Action
I’d love to hear how your tortellini soup turns out! Feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even your favorite sides to serve with it. Cooking is all about sharing, so let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!
For more information on the health benefits of spinach, check out this article.
To learn more about the nutritional value of tortellini, visit NutritionValue.org.
Print
Tortellini Soup: 5 Steps to Comforting Perfection
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting tortellini soup that is easy to make and perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 2 cups spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions.
- Stir in spinach until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen tortellini for convenience.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: tortellini soup, easy soup recipe, vegetarian soup
