Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
This Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is the ultimate cozy meal for those chilly months—it’s comforting, satisfying, and packed with flavor! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup is loaded with tender tortellini, sun-dried tomatoes, Tuscan herbs, fresh kale, and rich tomato goodness. With options for slow cooker preparation, as well as vegan and gluten-free variations, this dish truly stands out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy texture and rich flavors provide warmth on cold days.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe with seasonal vegetables or different types of broth.
- Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and fun pasta shapes, even picky eaters will love it!
- Healthy Options Available: It can be made vegan or gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make preparation smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Stirring utensil (spoon or spatula)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
- Stirring utensil: Helps combine ingredients thoroughly to ensure a uniform flavor throughout the soup.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (8 oz.) package organic cheese tortellini
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock/broth
- 3 Tbsps organic all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 Tbsps Tuscan Marry Me Blend
- 1 tsp sea salt
Additions
- 1 cup organic heavy cream
- 1 cup organic kale, chopped
- 3-4 mini red sweet peppers, chopped (optional)
- 1-2 Tbsps organic tomato paste
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or whole
- 1/2 lemon, freshly-squeezed
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Sauté Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 2: Add Broth and Tortellini
Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the tortellini. Cook according to package instructions until tender.
Step 3: Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour with some cold water to create a slurry. Gradually add this mixture into the pot while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Incorporate Creamy Elements
Add the heavy cream, kale, sun-dried tomatoes (if using), tomato paste, cherry tomatoes, lemon juice, and sea salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Final Touches
Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your hearty bowl of Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is not only delicious but also versatile in serving options. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience with this comforting soup.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for a burst of flavor.
- Parsley Garnish: Add chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Accompanied by Bread
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty baguette to soak up the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
Topped with Cheese
- Parmesan Shavings: Add freshly grated parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness.
- Feta Crumbles: For a tangy twist, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the soup.
Served in a Bread Bowl
- Bread Bowl Option: Hollow out small bread loaves and fill them with the soup for a fun presentation.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor significantly.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or cream until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Control Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed, especially after adding optional ingredients.
- Cook Tortellini Wisely: Add tortellini during the last few minutes of cooking to keep it tender yet firm.
- Experiment with Greens: If you don’t have kale, try spinach or Swiss chard for different flavors.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this delicious soup.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and complements the creamy soup beautifully.
- Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery garlic knots are perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing balance alongside the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a hearty side that pairs well with creamy textures.
- Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad with vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites of soup.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms make an excellent appetizer that complements the soup’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds depth to the soup’s flavor. Always include it for that aromatic touch.
- Overcooking tortellini: If you cook tortellini too long, they can become mushy. Follow package instructions closely for the best texture.
- Neglecting seasoning: A pinch of salt and herbs enhances the soup’s overall taste. Don’t forget to adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Using low-quality stock: The broth is a foundational element of this soup. Opt for high-quality chicken or vegetable stock to enhance flavor.
- Forgetting about freshness: Fresh ingredients like kale and cherry tomatoes elevate the dish. Use them instead of canned or frozen options when possible.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers and label with the date; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stovetop: Gently heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup.
Can I make Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I add for extra protein?
You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or even beans for additional protein without compromising flavor.
How do I customize Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup?
Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap out tortellini for other pasta types.
How long does Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup last?
In the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days. If frozen properly, it can last up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is not just comforting; it’s also versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on a chilly day, this soup will hit the spot. Don’t hesitate to try different ingredients and make it your own!
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is the perfect warm hug in a bowl for those chilly evenings. This delightful soup combines tender cheese tortellini with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh kale, and a creamy broth that creates an irresistible comfort food experience. With just 25 minutes from prep to table, this dish is not only quick but also versatile enough to accommodate various dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free options. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or whipping up a meal on a busy weeknight, this soup is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Minced garlic
- Cheese tortellini
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Organic all-purpose flour
- Heavy cream
- Kale
- Cherry tomatoes
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Add broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until tender.
- Prepare a slurry by whisking flour with cold water; gradually add to the pot while stirring continuously.
- Mix in heavy cream, chopped kale, cherry tomatoes, lemon juice, and sea salt; stir well.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
