This Spinach Tortellini Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty tortellini, fresh spinach, and a cozy broth, it’s perfect for a chilly day.
Whenever I make this soup, I can’t help but smile. It’s quick, easy, and always a hit! Pair it with some bread, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I find that olive oil gives a lovely flavor to the soup. If you’re out of it, you can use canola or vegetable oil, but keep in mind the taste might be a bit different.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re in a rush, use onion powder (about 1 teaspoon) as a substitute, though fresh onion is best!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor, but if you don’t have it, garlic powder can work too—try about 1/4 teaspoon.
Carrots: They add color and sweetness! If you want a shortcut, use frozen mixed veggies instead, just thaw them first.
Broth: I usually cook with chicken broth for richness, but vegetable broth is a great option for a vegetarian soup.
Tortellini: Go for cheese tortellini, but if you want to mix it up, try a meat-filled variety or even a gluten-free option if needed.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best as it wilts beautifully, but you can substitute with frozen spinach—just make sure it’s thawed and drained well.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Tortellini?
Cooking tortellini is straightforward, but here are some tips to make sure they turn out just right:
- Always add tortellini to boiling broth to help them cook evenly.
- Follow the package instructions closely, as cooking times can vary slightly.
- Keep an eye on them! They are done when they float to the surface and feel tender to the bite.
- A little overcooking can turn them mushy, so it’s always good to taste one when you think they might be done.
By keeping these tips and substitutions in mind, you’ll create a delightful bowl of Spinach Tortellini Soup that you’ll want to make again and again!
Delicious Spinach Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of around 25 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but comforting enough for a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Base:
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This step is important as it builds a flavorful base for your soup.
2. Adding More Flavors:
Next, add the minced garlic and diced carrots to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The carrots will start to soften, and you’ll love the aroma in your kitchen!
3. Bringing in the Broth:
Pour in your chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, turn the heat down to a gentle simmer. This is where all the flavors start to meld together beautifully.
4. Cooking the Tortellini:
Now, it’s time to add the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Cook them according to the package instructions (usually around 3-5 minutes). Keep an eye on them until they are tender and cooked through. You should see them floating to the top when they’re done!
5. Adding the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pot and give it a good stir. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts, adding a vibrant color and lots of nutrients to your soup.
6. Seasoning to Taste:
Now it’s the moment to season! Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. If you like a little spice, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together for a comforting blend of flavors.
7. Serving Your Soup:
Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness. It’s optional, but I highly recommend it!
8. Enjoy Your Cozy Creation:
Serve your Spinach Tortellini Soup hot, and enjoy every cozy bite!
This soup is not just tasty; it will surely warm your heart and lift your spirits. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you have frozen spinach on hand, it works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw it out and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup so it doesn’t make the broth too watery.
What If I Don’t Have Tortellini?
No problem! You can substitute tortellini with any small pasta, like elbow macaroni or penne. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the pasta type.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just keep in mind that tortellini may become a bit softer when reheated.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to toss in vegetables like zucchini, peas, or bell peppers. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly so everything is cooked perfectly.
