This Tomato Tortellini Soup is a cozy bowl of goodness! Filled with tender tortellini and a rich, tomatoey broth, it’s perfect for chilly days.
I always love how quick it is to whip up, especially when I want something warm and satisfying in no time. Grab a spoon, and let the comfort begin! ☺️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor for sautéing. If you don’t have olive oil, feel free to use vegetable oil or avocado oil instead.
Onion: A small yellow onion works best for sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or green onions can be good alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor. You could use garlic powder—about 1/2 teaspoon—if you’re out of fresh.
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth adds depth to the soup. Homemade is great, but store-bought works perfectly too. You can also use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Crushed Tomatoes: These create the soup base. If needed, diced tomatoes can substitute; just add a bit of tomato paste for thickness.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is traditional, but you can use spinach or meat-filled tortellini if you prefer. If you have gluten allergies, look for gluten-free tortellini options.
Spinach: Fresh is best, but frozen spinach works too. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess water before adding.
How Do I Make the Flavors Shine in My Soup?
To really make your soup flavorful, focus on sautéing the onions and garlic properly. Here’s how:
- Begin by heating the olive oil on medium heat. This allows the onions to soften and sweeten.
- Cook the onions until they’re translucent. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Don’t rush this—it’s key to flavor!
- Add the garlic for the last minute to keep it fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
- Let the soup simmer after adding the broth and tomatoes; this melds all the flavors beautifully!
By using these techniques and ingredients, your Tomato Tortellini Soup will be bursting with flavor and comfort. Enjoy crafting this warm dish!
How to Make Tomato Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Tomato Tortellini Soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll be enjoying your warm bowl of soup in about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This will bring out the sweetness in the onion.
2. Add Garlic:
Once the onion is ready, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute. You’ll notice a delightful aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Build the Soup Base:
Now, pour in your broth and crushed tomatoes. Add the dried basil and oregano, stirring everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil at this stage.
4. Let It Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Cook the Tortellini:
After simmering, add the cheese tortellini to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions; typically, this will take 3-5 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the top and are tender.
6. Add Fresh Spinach:
Next, stir in the chopped fresh spinach leaves and let them cook for 1-2 minutes until they’re wilted. This adds a lovely color and freshness to your soup!
7. Final Touches:
Remove the pot from heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt and combine with the soup. This makes it extra creamy and delicious.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the soup into bowls while it’s hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy your warm, hearty bowl of Tomato Tortellini Soup that’s packed with flavor!
Grab a spoon and dive into this comforting dish. It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well. Just add them to the soup directly without thawing and extend the cooking time by a couple of minutes until they’re tender.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute, offering a similar cheesy flavor. You can also use Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese if you don’t have Parmesan on hand.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much as it cools.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the onion at the beginning for best results.