Ah, the warm embrace of a comforting bowl of Tomato Tortellini Soup! This dish is like a hug in a bowl, don’t you think? Whenever I make this soup, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, reminding me of cozy nights in with my family, gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. It’s a wonderful dish that’s just as perfect for a chilly winter evening as it is for a breezy summer day. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that even on the busiest of days, you can have a homemade meal in no time!
One of the things I love about this soup is its versatility. Whether you want to add more veggies or some leftovers from the fridge, it adapts beautifully! So let’s dive in and see what we need to create this delightful dish.
What’s in Tomato Tortellini Soup?
Tortellini pasta: The star of the show! I love using fresh tortellini if I can find it at the store, but frozen ones work beautifully too. They add a lovely heartiness to the soup.
Fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes: Both options are great! If you’re using fresh tomatoes, roasting them first brings out their sweetness. But hey, no judgment if you’re going for the convenience of canned; they can be just as tasty!
Vegetable or chicken broth: This is where we pack in the flavor! I usually go for low-sodium broth so I can control the saltiness of the soup, especially with the addition of Parmesan at the end.
Onion: A fundamental ingredient that creates depth of flavor. I always opt for yellow or sweet onions as they provide a wonderful sweetness when sautéed.
Garlic: A must-have for that aromatic kick! Fresh minced garlic will give you the best flavor, but powder can work in a pinch.
Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that ties everything together. If you have fresh herbs lying around, feel free to swap them in.
Spinach or kale: These leafy greens are not just for smoothies! Both bring color, nutrients, and a lovely texture to the soup. Choose depending on your mood—spinach is tender, while kale is a bit more robust.
Olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic to perfection. I always reach for extra virgin; a little drizzle goes a long way!
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
Grated Parmesan cheese: The finishing touch! Who can resist the nutty, creamy goodness of freshly grated Parmesan generously sprinkled over the soup?
Is Tomato Tortellini Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This Tomato Tortellini Soup is packed with nutrients from the vegetables, while the tortellini adds a satisfying carb boost.
Spinach or Kale: Both options are fantastic sources of vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium, making your soup not only delicious but also a nutritious choice.
However, be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re watching your carb intake due to the tortellini. Try to balance it out with plenty of greens! And if you’d like to make it lighter, consider using whole wheat tortellini or skipping the cheese topping.
Ingredients
– Tortellini pasta (fresh or frozen)
– Fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes (28 oz can or 4-5 large fresh)
– Vegetable or chicken broth (4 cups)
– 1 Onion (chopped)
– 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
– 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
– 2 cups Spinach or Kale (washed and chopped)
– 2 tbsp Olive oil
– Salt and black pepper (to taste)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
This recipe will serve about 4-6 folks. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Tomato Tortellini Soup?
1. Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Crying is allowed—onions can be pesky!
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the onion and garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the tomatoes and broth to the pot, stir well, and bring to a cheerful boil.
4. Stir in the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes.
5. When the tortellini is almost finished cooking, add in the spinach or kale along with the Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy every warm bite!
Soup-er Tips for a Delicious Experience!
– If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of cream or a dollop of pesto right before serving for a richer flavor.
– For extra veggies, throw in some chopped carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers!
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more scrumptious the next day!
I sincerely hope you dive into making this Tomato Tortellini Soup! It’s one of those dishes that not only warms the stomach but also the heart. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out—feel free to reach out and share your experiences or any fun twists you added! Happy cooking!
