This warm and hearty spinach tortellini soup is a treat! Packed with soft, cheesy tortellini and fresh spinach, it’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in.
And let me tell you, the broth is like a hug in a bowl! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—it makes it even yummier. Give it a try next time you’re craving comfort food!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great choice for sautéing, it adds flavor and helps cook the veggies without sticking. If you’re out, avocado oil or butter would work wonderfully as substitutes.
Onion: Use a small onion for sweetness, but if you prefer, leeks or shallots can also give a milder flavor.
Carrots: Diced carrots add color and sweetness. If you’re avoiding carrots, celery or bell peppers can be good alternatives.
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth is essential for depth of flavor. Making your own stock is fantastic if you have the time; otherwise, low-sodium store-bought is a reliable option.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is perfect for this soup. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using whole wheat or even spinach-flavored tortellini.
Spinach: Fresh is best for that lovely texture, but frozen spinach (thawed and drained) can work as a quick substitute in a pinch.
How Do I Make Sure My Spinach Stays Bright and Fresh?
Add the spinach towards the end of cooking. This keeps the leaves vibrant and prevents them from wilting too much. It only takes a quick cook of about 2 minutes once added. This way, you’ll enjoy its bright color and nutritional benefits!
- Keep the heat on medium to avoid overcooking the spinach.
- Be sure to stir gently so the spinach is evenly distributed without breaking it down too much.
Adding freshly squeezed lemon juice just before serving can enhance the spinach’s flavor even more. Enjoy your soup!
Delicious Spinach Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Tortellini and Spinach:
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional:
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wholesome soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 10 minutes to cook. In no time at all, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to warm your soul!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and diced carrots. Sauté these together for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become tender. This step really brings out their flavors!
2. Add Garlic:
Once the onion and carrots are tender, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until it’s fragrant. This is where the kitchen starts to smell amazing!
3. Add Broth:
Next, pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Watch closely as it warms up—you want it bubbling nicely!
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Once the broth is boiling, add the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they float to the top and feel tender.
5. Stir in Spinach and Herbs:
Now, it’s time to add fresh spinach leaves, along with the dried oregano and basil. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the spinach is nicely wilted and bright green.
6. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your soup. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Remember, season gradually and taste as you go!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Lastly, ladle the delicious soup into bowls, and if you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.
8. Enjoy!
Serve hot and enjoy your comfort-filled spinach tortellini soup! It’s perfect on chilly days or any time you need a delightful meal.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly in this recipe—just add them directly to the boiling broth and cook according to the package instructions, usually just a couple more minutes than fresh tortellini.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may continue to develop as it sits. If you want to freeze it, make sure to leave out the spinach and tortellini, as they don’t freeze well. Store the broth base separately, and add fresh ingredients when reheating.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure your tortellini is vegetarian. Many varieties are available, often filled with cheeses or vegetables.
What Can I Add to Make It Heartier?
If you’d like to add more substance, consider including white beans for extra protein or diced potatoes for heartiness. Just add them with the broth, so they have time to cook through!
