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. It also offers options for slow cooking, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of cheese tortellini and creamy broth warms you from the inside out.
- Versatile Options: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of broth.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love tortellini! This soup is a great way to sneak in some veggies without complaints.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the necessary tools ready. Having the right equipment makes preparing this creamy soup a breeze.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without spills.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your pots.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient ratios for perfect flavor balance.
Ingredients
Base 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
Thickening Agents
- 3 Tbsps organic all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 Tbsps Tuscan Marry Me Blend
- 1 tsp sea salt
Creamy Components
- 1 cup organic heavy cream
- 1 cup organic kale, chopped
Optional Add-ins
- 3-4 mini red sweet peppers, chopped (optional)
- 1-2 Tbsps organic tomato paste
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or whole
Finishing Touches
- 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 for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Stock and Tortellini
Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock. Bring to a gentle boil before adding the cheese tortellini. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 3: Thicken the Soup
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and a small amount of stock until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the pot while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Veggies
Reduce heat to low. Slowly stir in heavy cream along with chopped kale and optional sweet peppers. Allow everything to simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Add cherry tomatoes and season with Tuscan Marry Me Blend and sea salt. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for brightness before serving.
Step 6: Serve with Parmesan
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of crusty baguette for dipping. The bread complements the creamy texture of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread adds a flavorful twist and makes for a filling dinner.
Topped with Greens
- Fresh Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for added aroma and flavor.
- Chopped Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach just before serving for extra nutrition and color.
With Cheese
- Shredded Parmesan: Top each bowl with freshly grated parmesan cheese to enhance the savory flavors.
- Feta Crumbles: For a unique twist, sprinkle feta cheese for a tangy taste contrast.
With Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, providing crunch and freshness.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly will balance the richness of the soup.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
To make your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup even more delicious, consider these tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and vegetables to elevate the flavor profile.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt or spices according to your personal preference.
- Control Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Experiment with Proteins: For variety, incorporate cooked chicken or sausage for added protein.
- Cook Tortellini Separately: Cook tortellini in a separate pot and add it at the end to prevent overcooking.
- Garnish Creatively: Use additional toppings like crushed red pepper flakes for heat or lemon zest for brightness.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can take your meal to the next level. Here are some great options.
- Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for sopping up soup.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil adds freshness and crunch.
- Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad combines mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil—perfect alongside creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy complement with their natural sweetness.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers protein and texture contrast.
- Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa can be hearty companions to your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks make simple mistakes that can affect the outcome of their Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using stale ingredients – Always check the freshness of your tortellini and herbs. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture.
- Skipping the sauté step – Sautéing garlic before adding broth builds a rich flavor base. Don’t skip this crucial step!
- Overcooking the tortellini – Follow package instructions closely. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy, ruining the soup’s texture.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a flavorful finish.
- Not letting it simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer melds flavors together beautifully. Just a few extra minutes can make a big difference.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup:
Can I make Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute cheese tortellini with vegan tortellini and use coconut cream for a creamy texture.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup?
Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or more fresh herbs like basil for added depth.
How do I store leftovers of Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Is Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free tortellini and ensuring your broth is also gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is not only comforting but also highly versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or quick weeknight meals. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors it brings!
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 4
Description
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish to warm you up during chilly months. This rich and hearty soup combines tender cheese tortellini with sun-dried tomatoes, kale, and a flavorful broth, creating a comforting meal ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Not only is it quick to prepare in just 25 minutes, but it’s also versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options. Enjoy a bowl full of creamy goodness that your whole family will love!
Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Garlic
- Cheese tortellini (or vegan option)
- Chicken or vegetable stock
- All-purpose flour
- Tuscan seasoning blend
- Heavy cream
- Kale
- Optional add-ins: sweet peppers, cherry tomatoes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat; sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add stock and bring to a gentle boil; stir in tortellini and cook until al dente.
- Whisk together flour with a small amount of stock; add to the pot, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Lower heat and mix in heavy cream and chopped kale; simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes, Tuscan seasoning, salt, and fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
