Description
This flavorful and comforting Tortellini Soup is a quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners. Made with tender cheese tortellini, fresh vegetables, Italian seasoning, and a savory broth, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal. Fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese add a delicious finish, while optional protein additions can make it even more filling. This Italian-inspired soup is great as a vegetarian option when prepared with vegetable broth.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Broth and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
Pasta and Garnish
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it releases its aroma but does not brown.
- Season and Add Broth: Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the diced tomatoes, including their juice. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook Tortellini: Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions, typically 5 to 7 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
- Add Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and evenly distributed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For added protein, include cooked shredded chicken or Italian sausage.
- To make the soup creamy, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking before serving.
- Using vegetable broth keeps this soup vegetarian.
- Adjust seasoning to taste depending on the saltiness of your broth.