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Warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup is the perfect meal for chilly nights. I’ll guide you through simple steps to create this cozy dish that will make you feel right at home. With fresh herbs and cheesy tortellini, each bite is a delight. Ready to dive into a bowl of comfort? Let’s gather our ingredients and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
- Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of tomatoes, basil, and tortellini creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
- Nutritious: With the addition of spinach and fresh herbs, this soup is packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this soup your own.
Ingredients
To make a tasty Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup, you need some simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
– Olive oil
– Onion
– Garlic
– Crushed tomatoes
– Vegetable broth
– Dried oregano
– Dried basil
– Salt and pepper
– Cheese tortellini
– Baby spinach
– Fresh basil
– Grated Parmesan cheese
Each ingredient adds its own flavor to the soup. The olive oil gives a rich base. Onions and garlic bring out sweetness and warmth. Crushed tomatoes make the soup hearty and tangy.
Vegetable broth adds depth and body. Dried oregano and basil help to create a classic taste. Salt and pepper are key for flavor. Cheese tortellini makes the soup filling. Baby spinach adds a fresh touch that brightens the dish. Fresh basil gives a pop of color and taste. Lastly, the grated Parmesan cheese adds a creamy finish.
Gather these ingredients to create a comforting bowl of soup. You can find most of them in your pantry or local grocery store.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Heat olive oil and sauté onion
In a large pot, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Next, add 1 medium diced onion. Sauté this mixture over medium heat. Cook until the onion becomes soft and clear, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant
Now, stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook this for an extra minute. You will smell the garlic’s strong and sweet aroma filling the kitchen.
3. Combine tomatoes and broth
After the onion and garlic smell great, add 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of vegetable broth. These two ingredients form the soup’s rich base.
4. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper
Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to blend the flavors.
Cooking Instructions
1. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes
Increase the heat until the soup starts to bubble. Once it simmers, lower the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to mix well.
2. Add tortellini to the pot
Now, add 1 package of cheese tortellini to the pot. If you use fresh tortellini, cook for about 3-5 minutes. If you use frozen, it will take about 7-10 minutes.
3. Stir in baby spinach and fresh basil
When the tortellini is cooked, add 2 cups of baby spinach. Stir for 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Then, mix in 1/4 cup of fresh chopped basil for a burst of flavor.
This process makes a warm and lovely soup that will comfort you. Enjoy every bite!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– How to enhance flavor with herbs
Use fresh herbs when you can. Fresh basil adds a bright taste. Dried herbs work, too. Add them early to let their flavors mix into the soup. You can also try adding parsley or thyme for a different taste.
– Cooking time variations for fresh vs. frozen tortellini
Fresh tortellini cooks fast, usually in 3 to 5 minutes. Frozen tortellini needs a bit longer, around 7 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them. They are ready when they float to the top.
– Recommended tools for efficient preparation
A large pot is key for cooking the soup. A wooden spoon helps stir without scratching the pot. A sharp knife makes chopping easy. Use a cutting board for safety.
Serving Suggestions
– Best accompaniments for the soup
Serve the soup with crusty bread. A simple salad pairs well, too. It adds a fresh crunch that balances the soup’s warmth. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread for a tasty twist.
– Creative topping ideas
Top your soup with croutons for crunch. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add color. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan gives a rich flavor. You can even add a drizzle of olive oil for a finishing touch.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality cheese tortellini will elevate the flavors of your soup and provide a vibrant taste.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference for the perfect flavor balance.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or sausage to the soup for added protein and flavor.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator but keep the tortellini separate to avoid sogginess.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the tortellini in your soup. Gnocchi works well if you want a different shape. Homemade pasta is another fun choice. It gives a personal touch to the dish.
When it comes to tomatoes, I often choose fresh ones. They add a bright flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned tomatoes are a great backup. The crushed tomatoes in a can are just as tasty. They save time and keep the soup quick to make.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer this now. It allows everyone to enjoy this soup without worry.
For those who follow vegetarian or vegan diets, you can make easy swaps. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also skip the cheese tortellini. Try using a vegan tortellini or add more veggies for a hearty meal. This soup can fit many diets while still being delicious.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
After enjoying your Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup, you may have some left. Store the soup in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing. In the fridge, the soup lasts for about three to four days. Just make sure to check for any odd smells or changes in color before eating.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save the soup for later, freezing is a great option. Choose a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Leave some space at the top for the soup to expand. The soup can stay frozen for up to three months.
When you’re ready to eat, take the soup out of the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight. You can also use the microwave on defrost mode. Once thawed, heat the soup on the stove over low heat. Stir often to make sure it heats evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems thick. Enjoy your warm, comforting soup again!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use other types of broth?
Yes, you can use chicken broth or beef broth. These will change the flavor a bit. Vegetable broth keeps it light and fresh. Choose the broth that fits your taste.
What can I add for extra protein?
You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans. These add protein and make the soup heartier. Tofu is a great choice for a vegetarian option.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this soup is great for meal prep. You can make a big batch. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can freeze it for longer storage.
How can I make it spicier?
To add spice, use red pepper flakes or hot sauce. You can also add diced jalapeños for a fresh kick. Adjust the spice to your liking for the perfect heat.
This blog post covered ingredients, steps, tips, variations, and storage for a tasty soup. You learned how to create a flavorful dish using fresh herbs and simple ingredients. Remember, you can swap tortellini or adjust for dietary needs. Knowing storage tips helps you enjoy leftovers too. Cooking can be fun, and this recipe is easy to follow. Dive into your kitchen and make this delicious soup toda
Hearty Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup made with tomatoes, basil, and cheese tortellini.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- to taste salt and pepper
- 9 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- for serving Grated Parmesan cheese
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, then add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the tortellini to the simmering soup and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh or 7-10 minutes for frozen.
When the tortellini is cooked, stir in the baby spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh basil before serving.
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Feel free to add more vegetables or protein as desired.
Keyword hearty, soup, tortellini, vegetarian
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