This delicious Spinach Tortellini Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s filled with cheesy tortellini, fresh spinach, and a tasty broth that brings everything together.
Whenever I make this soup, I feel like a kitchen wizard! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing. If you need a substitute, you can use butter or even vegetable oil. I find that olive oil adds a nice flavor, but the others work as well.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. If you have a shallot, that’s a lovely alternative! You could also use green onions for a milder taste.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could work—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian, but chicken broth adds depth. Either works well. For a low-sodium version, look for low-sodium broths or make your own at home.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is traditional, but you can use spinach tortellini or even gluten-free options if needed. Just check cooking times as they may vary!
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the best texture. If you have frozen spinach, you can use that—just thaw and drain it well before adding.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Soup?
The key to delicious soup is in the layering of flavors. Start by sautéing your onions—this softens and sweetens them. Cook the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Adding the carrots will not only add sweetness but also color.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté chopped onions for 3-4 minutes; they should be translucent.
- Add garlic and carrots—cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Make sure to bring the broth to a gentle boil before adding the tortellini to ensure even cooking. Finally, add the spinach last, as it wilts quickly. Enjoy creating a soup that warms you right up!
How to Make Spinach Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced or julienned
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 (9-12 oz) package fresh cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of basil and oregano
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Spinach Tortellini Soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will create a nice base for the flavors of the soup.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and softens. This is key to building flavor!
3. Add Garlic and Carrots:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and diced carrots. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the carrots start to soften. The aroma will be delightful!
4. Pour in the Broth:
Carefully pour in the broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. This will be the heart of your soup!
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Once the broth is boiling, add the fresh tortellini to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until the tortellini are tender and float to the top.
6. Stir in the Spinach:
When the tortellini is almost done cooking, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach has wilted, about 1-2 minutes. You’ll love the vibrant green color!
7. Season to Taste:
Season your soup with salt, pepper, and the optional Italian seasoning. Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese for added richness. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful soup!
This hearty Spinach Tortellini Soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends. It’s easy to make and packed full of flavor, making it a perfect option for any meal!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup. You can stir it in right at the end until heated through.
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Tortellini?
No problem! If fresh tortellini isn’t available, you can use dried tortellini. Just be sure to cook it according to package instructions, as it will take longer to soften than fresh tortellini.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the soup a day in advance. However, I recommend cooking the tortellini separately and adding it right before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy. Store the soup in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick. Enjoy your delicious soup again!
