Introduction
Welcome to my kitchen, where quick and easy meets delicious and satisfying! Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. This Cheese Tortellini Soup is not only a breeze to make but also incredibly flavorful, making it a treat for your taste buds. Whether you’re short on time or just craving a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheese Tortellini Soup is a great dish for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak some veggies into your diet, thanks to the addition of spinach. Plus, who can resist the creamy, cheesy goodness of tortellini?
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pinch crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces cheese tortellini (the refrigerated kind)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach leaves (packed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Recipe Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the tortellini and cook for a few minutes, until tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the spinach, Parmesan cheese, and cream.
- Add the fresh basil and serve warm.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- To make this soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Feel free to add in other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a lighter version, use milk instead of cream.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated? Yes, you can use frozen tortellini, but you may need to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I freeze this soup? While you can freeze this soup, the tortellini may become mushy upon thawing and reheating. It’s best to enjoy it fresh if possible.
Food Pairings
This Cheese Tortellini Soup pairs well with a crusty loaf of bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a beverage, try serving it with a glass of white wine or a crisp, refreshing lemonade.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Cheese Tortellini Soup as much as I do! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy cooking!