This Tortellini Soup is a comforting and heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any season. It features a creamy base with tender tortellini, fresh spinach, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch, this soup provides a rich, flavorful experience that will leave you feeling satisfied and content. The combination of vegetables, herbs, and creamy broth makes this soup not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing. In addition to being a filling meal, it’s versatile enough to accommodate different variations depending on your dietary preferences. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, this tortellini soup will undoubtedly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1/2 onion (diced): The onion adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that serves as the foundation for the soup’s base. Yellow or white onions work best, as they offer a balanced sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic brings a fragrant, savory depth to the soup. It’s a key ingredient that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, olive oil helps to infuse the soup with its mild, fruity flavor and ensures the vegetables cook evenly without sticking to the pan.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: The tomato paste adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor, which intensifies the soup’s base and provides a deeper umami quality.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Chicken broth serves as the primary liquid in this soup, offering a savory, flavorful base. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan version.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (undrained): Diced tomatoes add a slight acidity and a sweet-tart flavor that balances the richness of the cream and broth. Keeping the liquid from the can enhances the soup’s texture and flavor.
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped): Fresh spinach is a nutritious addition that also adds color and texture to the soup. It wilts down beautifully, adding a mild, leafy flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped): Basil brings a bright, aromatic herbal note to the soup, adding complexity and freshness.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped): Fresh parsley enhances the soup with its clean, slightly peppery flavor and adds a burst of color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential to balance the flavors in the soup. Add them to taste, adjusting as you go.
- 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper flakes: A dash of hot pepper flakes adds a subtle heat to the soup, bringing a pleasant kick without overpowering the other flavors.
For the Creaminess and Texture
- 1 cup cream: The cream provides a rich, velvety texture that transforms the soup into a creamy, indulgent meal. You can use heavy cream for a richer result or opt for half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.
- 2 cups tortellini (cooked): The tortellini is the heart of the soup, adding substance and texture. Use your favorite flavor of tortellini—cheese, spinach, or meat-filled varieties work well in this soup.
For Garnishing
- Parmesan (for garnish): A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finishing touch to the soup. It enhances the flavor and brings a little extra creaminess to each bite.
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Begin by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the diced onion and sauté it for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The onion should release its natural sweetness, making the base of the soup fragrant and inviting. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burnt. Garlic should be golden, not brown, to avoid bitterness.
- Cook the Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste to the pot and cook for about one minute, stirring it occasionally. This step helps the tomato paste develop a deeper, more complex flavor. The paste will become slightly caramelized and fragrant, adding richness to the overall taste of the soup.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir the mixture well to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. The combination of the chicken broth and tomatoes will form the base of the soup, which will be flavorful and savory with a slight sweetness from the tomatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Add the Spinach and Fresh Herbs
- Add Spinach and Herbs: Once the soup has simmered and the flavors are starting to develop, stir in the fresh spinach. Spinach wilts down very quickly, adding a mild, earthy flavor to the soup. Next, add the chopped fresh basil and parsley. These herbs provide brightness and a fresh burst of flavor. Stir everything together, ensuring that the spinach is evenly distributed throughout the soup.
- Season the Soup: Add salt, pepper, and hot pepper flakes to taste. The amount of seasoning will depend on your preference, so be sure to taste and adjust accordingly. The hot pepper flakes add a subtle, warming heat that balances the richness of the cream, but feel free to adjust the amount based on how spicy you like your soup.
- Simmer the Soup: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This will allow the spinach to fully wilt and the herbs to release their flavors. The soup should have a rich, flavorful broth, with the spinach and herbs enhancing the overall taste.
Add the Cream and Tortellini
- Stir in the Cream: After simmering the soup, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the cream, which will transform the soup into a creamy, indulgent meal. The cream will make the soup smooth and velvety, adding a luxurious texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Mix well to ensure that the cream is fully incorporated into the broth.
- Add the Cooked Tortellini: Add the cooked tortellini to the pot and stir to combine. The tortellini will soak up some of the creamy broth, becoming tender and flavorful. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let it sit for a few minutes to allow the tortellini to absorb more liquid.
Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with Parmesan: Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan adds a salty, umami flavor that elevates the soup. You can also add a few extra sprigs of parsley or basil for a pop of color.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot, and enjoy every comforting bite of creamy tortellini, tender vegetables, and rich broth. This soup is hearty enough to be a standalone meal, or it can be paired with a light side salad or crusty bread.
Helpful Tips
Adjusting Consistency
- If the soup is too thick, you can thin it out by adding more chicken broth or water. For a creamier soup, you can stir in a bit more cream. If the soup is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.
Tortellini Variations
- You can use any flavor of tortellini for this soup. Cheese tortellini is a classic choice, but spinach, chicken, or mushroom-filled tortellini would also work wonderfully. If you prefer, you can even use gluten-free tortellini to make the soup suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Make-Ahead
- This soup is perfect for making ahead of time. The flavors continue to meld together as it sits, making it even better the next day. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or cream if necessary to bring it back to its creamy consistency.
Freezing the Soup
- You can freeze this soup, but the cream may separate when reheating. If you plan to freeze it, I recommend making the soup without the cream. Once you’re ready to serve it, heat the soup and stir in the cream just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute for chicken broth, especially if you want to make this soup vegetarian or vegan. It will still provide a savory base for the soup, though the flavor may differ slightly.
Can I make this soup without cream?
Yes, you can make this soup without cream. To keep the soup creamy, you can use a splash of milk or a plant-based milk alternative, such as almond or oat milk. Alternatively, you can skip the cream altogether and enjoy a lighter version of the soup.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make the soup gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure that the broth is also gluten-free. You can also check that the tomato paste and other ingredients do not contain gluten.
Conclusion
This Tortellini Soup is a warm, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings comfort to your table with every spoonful. The combination of vegetables, fresh herbs, and tender tortellini creates a satisfying and hearty meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this soup is sure to be a hit. The creamy broth, rich with tomatoes, herbs, and spinach, pairs perfectly with the pasta