This cozy spinach tortellini soup is packed with delicious cheese-filled pasta and fresh spinach in a warm, tasty broth. It’s perfect for chilly days!
Making this soup is a breeze! Just throw everything into one pot and let it happily bubble away. I love how it warms me up on a cold evening!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great choice for sautéing, as it adds flavor. If you don’t have olive oil, you could use vegetable oil or butter. Each will give the soup a distinct but equally delicious taste.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onion create a classic base (the “mirepoix”). You can substitute with bell peppers or leeks if you prefer a different flavor. Just remember to chop them finely so they cook quickly!
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini adds heartiness. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or even gnocchi. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is best for its tender texture, but you can use frozen spinach if that’s what you have. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess water in your soup.
How Do I Ensure My Soup Has Amazing Flavor?
Creating a delicious soup is all about layering flavors. First, always sauté your vegetables until they’re tender—this brings out their natural sweetness! Layering in the garlic after that ensures it doesn’t burn and maintains its lovely aroma.
- Start with medium heat to sauté veggies. When they’re softened, add garlic for a fragrant boost.
- Once you pour in the broth, taste and adjust your seasonings. A kick from red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor!
- Finally, add your spinach at the end of cooking. This keeps it bright green and nutrient-packed!
With these tips, your spinach tortellini soup will turn out wonderfully each time! Enjoy every warm, cozy bowl.
Spinach Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely diced carrot
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cook time. So, in just around 30 minutes, you can have this comforting soup ready to enjoy on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, start by heating the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced carrot, celery, and onion into the pot. Sauté these veggies until they become tender, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This step brings out their flavors!
2. Add Garlic:
Once the vegetables are tender, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now it’s time to add the broth. Pour in 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. This will create the flavorful base of your soup!
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Once the broth is boiling, add the cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. The tortellini will float to the top when they’re ready—and that’s when you know they’re perfectly cooked!
5. Add Spinach:
In the last couple of minutes of cooking, gently stir in the fresh spinach leaves. They will wilt quickly and add a lovely pop of color and nutrition to your soup!
6. Season It Up:
Now, taste your soup and season it with the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. If you’d like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Stir to combine!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if you wish. Serve hot and enjoy the warmth and flavor of your homemade spinach tortellini soup!
This hearty soup combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with fresh spinach and a flavorful vegetable base in a clear broth, making it a simple, nourishing meal. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, simply follow the package instructions for cooking time. Usually, they may take a bit longer than fresh, so just wait until they float and are tender.
What Can I Substitute for Spinach?
If you don’t have spinach on hand, kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives. Just chop them up and add them in the last few minutes of cooking to allow them to wilt properly.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Just make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’re all set for a vegetarian version of this delicious soup!
