This Spinach Tortellini Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tasty cheese-filled tortellini and fresh spinach, perfect for cozy days.
I love how quickly it comes together; just simmer and serve. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and easy! 🍞😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil enriches the flavor of the soup. If you’re out, vegetable oil or melted butter make good substitutes without altering the taste too much.
Onion: A small onion adds depth to the soup. If you need a substitute, try shallots or leeks for a slightly different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice punch! In a pinch, garlic powder can work, though the flavor won’t be as strong. Use about 1/8 teaspoon for every clove.
Broth: You can use either vegetable or chicken broth based on your preference. Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine in a hurry!
Diced Tomatoes: These can be swapped with fresh tomatoes (about 3 medium, chopped) or even crushed tomatoes for a thicker soup.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is a classic choice. If you have dietary needs, try using gluten-free tortellini or switching to gnocchi instead.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully but you can also use kale or Swiss chard. They’ll need a bit more time to soften, though!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Soup?
Building flavor in this soup mainly comes from how you prepare your onions and garlic. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by heating the olive oil before adding the onion. Cook the onions until they’re soft and translucent; this usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Don’t rush adding garlic! Cook it only for 30 seconds after the onions are done, as it can burn quickly and turn bitter.
- Simmering the soup for 10 minutes helps combine the tastes beautifully. This is when the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings get cozy with each other!
Taking this extra time helps ensure every spoonful is packed with great taste!
Spinach Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Spinach Tortellini Soup takes around 30 minutes total—about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes softened and translucent. This will give the soup a lovely base flavor!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell the wonderful fragrance. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can turn bitter quickly!
3. Combine the Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice). Then, stir in the dried Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Bring this mixture to a boil!
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes. This allows all the delicious flavors to meld together!
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the cheese tortellini to the soup. Cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes until the tortellini are tender and fully cooked.
6. Stir in the Spinach:
Fold in the fresh baby spinach and allow it to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until it wilts down nicely into the soup.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You want it to be just right!
8. Serve:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness!
This vibrant soup combines cheesy tortellini and fresh spinach in a flavorful tomato broth, making it a perfect comforting and nutritious meal. Cheers to delicious cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes. Keep an eye on them, and cook until they float and are tender! Just be sure not to thaw them ahead of time.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If the soup thickens, add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add in any vegetables you like, such as diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the onions to ensure they’re tender by the time the soup is ready.
Is There a Dairy-Free Option for This Soup?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, skip the Parmesan cheese and choose dairy-free tortellini. You can also enhance the creaminess by adding a splash of coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
