Tortellini Soup
why make this recipe
Tortellini Soup is a warm and comforting dish perfect for any day. It is easy to make and great for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. With fresh vegetables, hearty tortellini, and healthy greens, this soup offers a burst of flavors while being nourishing and filling. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any veggies you have lying around!
how to make Tortellini Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 2 medium carrots (chopped)
- 1 fennel bulb (diced)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 3½ cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 9 to 12 ounces cheese tortellini (or vegan tortellini)
- 5 cups torn kale
- Kale Pesto
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, diced fennel, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 8 minutes.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme leaves, and red pepper flakes. Cover and let simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- While the soup is simmering, cook the tortellini in a pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until al dente.
- Add the cooked tortellini and torn kale to the soup. Simmer for 2 more minutes until the kale is wilted.
- Taste and season the soup with about ¼ to ½ teaspoon more salt and a few generous grinds of black pepper.
- Serve the soup in bowls topped with scoops of kale pesto and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
how to serve Tortellini Soup
Serve Tortellini Soup hot in bowls. Garnish each bowl with a dollop of kale pesto and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for extra flavor. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad.
how to store Tortellini Soup
Store any leftovers of Tortellini Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Keep in mind that the tortellini may absorb some of the broth, so you might want to add a bit of water or broth while reheating.
tips to make Tortellini Soup
- Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- If you want a richer broth, add a splash of white wine when sautéing the vegetables.
- For a vegan version, use vegetable tortellini and skip the cheese in the pesto.
variation
You can switch up the greens by using spinach or Swiss chard instead of kale. Additionally, for a creamier consistency, you can stir in a splash of cream or a dairy-free alternative just before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make Tortellini Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will taste even better after a day or two.
2. Can I freeze Tortellini Soup?
Freezing is possible, but fresh tortellini may become mushy after thawing. If you’re planning to freeze it, consider cooking the tortellini separately and adding them when you reheat the soup.
3. What can I serve with Tortellini Soup?
Tortellini Soup goes great with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a light salad for a complete meal.
